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24/06/2010
United Utilities Steps Up Its Drought Action Plan
With no rain in sight and reservoir levels continuing to fall, United Utilities may soon need access to more of the North West's water resources and has applied to the Environment Agency for a drought permit.
The drought permit relates to Ennerdale Water in West Cumbria and, if granted, it will allow the company to continue to take water from the lake as it reaches lower levels. It will also ensure there is no adverse effect on the River Ehen by continuing to release water from the lake into the river.
John Sanders, United Utilities Water Regulation and Strategy Manager, said: "It's been an unprecedented period of dry weather since December 2009, and we need to take action now so we can tap into available water resources if the dry weather continues."
There is a legal process to be followed for drought permit applications and people will have the opportunity to make comments about it before the Environment Agency makes its decision.
United Utilities is also encouraging customers to play their part by using water wisely. A radio and newspaper advertising campaign has been running throughout the North West since last week.
He added: "Now, more than ever we need people to use water wisely. We're monitoring the situation day by day, but if we don't have any significant rainfall by the end of this month we will need a hosepipe ban to help conserve essential supplies.
"Of course we need to balance the needs of our customers with the needs of the environment. By using water wisely we can all help to maintain supplies and keep rivers flowing."
(CD/GK)
The drought permit relates to Ennerdale Water in West Cumbria and, if granted, it will allow the company to continue to take water from the lake as it reaches lower levels. It will also ensure there is no adverse effect on the River Ehen by continuing to release water from the lake into the river.
John Sanders, United Utilities Water Regulation and Strategy Manager, said: "It's been an unprecedented period of dry weather since December 2009, and we need to take action now so we can tap into available water resources if the dry weather continues."
There is a legal process to be followed for drought permit applications and people will have the opportunity to make comments about it before the Environment Agency makes its decision.
United Utilities is also encouraging customers to play their part by using water wisely. A radio and newspaper advertising campaign has been running throughout the North West since last week.
He added: "Now, more than ever we need people to use water wisely. We're monitoring the situation day by day, but if we don't have any significant rainfall by the end of this month we will need a hosepipe ban to help conserve essential supplies.
"Of course we need to balance the needs of our customers with the needs of the environment. By using water wisely we can all help to maintain supplies and keep rivers flowing."
(CD/GK)
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15 May 2006
Government grants first drought order for 11 years
The first drought order in England and Wales since 1995 has been granted to Sutton and East Surrey Water. The order, which is valid for six months, limits or prohibits non-essential uses of water in the region.
Government grants first drought order for 11 years
The first drought order in England and Wales since 1995 has been granted to Sutton and East Surrey Water. The order, which is valid for six months, limits or prohibits non-essential uses of water in the region.
25 May 2006
More drought orders issued
The government has issued three more drought orders as fears continue to grow that south east England could face its worst drought for a hundred years.
More drought orders issued
The government has issued three more drought orders as fears continue to grow that south east England could face its worst drought for a hundred years.
07 July 2010
Hose Ban In Water Shortage Alert
While United Utilities has today announced a hosepipe ban to take effect from Friday at 6.00am, the water watchdog, the Consumer Council for Water said this is not enough. It expects the company to deliver a high quality customer service, and to continue to keep customers well informed.
Hose Ban In Water Shortage Alert
While United Utilities has today announced a hosepipe ban to take effect from Friday at 6.00am, the water watchdog, the Consumer Council for Water said this is not enough. It expects the company to deliver a high quality customer service, and to continue to keep customers well informed.
13 March 2012
Water Restrictions Expected To Spread
The environment agency has said hosepipe bans and water restrictions could reach as far north as Yorkshire if the prolonged dry weather continues. South-east of England and East Anglia are already in the grip of the UK’s worst drought in 30 years.
Water Restrictions Expected To Spread
The environment agency has said hosepipe bans and water restrictions could reach as far north as Yorkshire if the prolonged dry weather continues. South-east of England and East Anglia are already in the grip of the UK’s worst drought in 30 years.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
