The Government has declared severe drought in parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex. The South East and South West have experienced their driest April to September in over a century, impacting reservoir levels in that area.

The Environment Agency (EA) has issued guidance on abstraction outside the authorised period for filling water storage reservoirs.

The government is urging water companies not to lose momentum and carry on water efficiency measures until the drought is over, as research shows above-average rainfall needed to end drought by April 2027.

Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle visited Havant Thicket reservoir in Hampshire last Thursday, overseeing the latest steps to deliver a water-resilient future, as the National Drought Group reported continued low rainfall in August.

The Environment Agency is taking action to protect water supplies and wildlife in the Midlands as dry weather continues to place pressure on river levels.

Ofwat has launched a consultation seeking views on its proposed decision to specify the White Horse Reservoir as a Specified Infrastructure Project and on its proposal to issue a Preparatory Works Notice to Thames Water in respect of the reservoir.

Ahead of land, consent or even capital, it is the supply and treatment of water that is impacting the growth of housing, renewables and digital infrastructure in many areas. In an Expert Focus article for WaterBriefing, James Cattermole, ​​​​Partner - Infrastructures at Carter Jonas takes a look at water as a limiting factor on economic growth.

The Environment Agency says that the launch of the joint England and Wales public consultation on proposed reforms to reservoir safety is now planned for later in 2026 – the EA is seeking to ensure the work aligns with the recently published Water White Paper and wider government priorities.

Four months of above average rainfall mean England’s water levels have now largely recovered from last year’s drought, the National Drought Group heard yesterday.

The government has provided an additional £6.5 million government funding to help build long-term resilience across the canal network in England and Wales and ensure it continues to operate safely.