South West Water MAY bring in further restrictions to protect supplies

South West Water says it might have to bring in more restrictions, as Cornwall remains in a drought.

Bosses say they are taking all possible measures to protect supplies, after what has been the region's fourth driest summer since records began and with no significant rain forecast by the Met Office this autumn.

Officials have told us that reservoir levels in the Duchy and Devon remain low and continue to drop.

Back in August, a Temporary Use Ban, otherwise known as a hosepipe ban, was introduced in Cornwall and remains in force.

Statement from South West Water

"Reservoir levels across Cornwall and parts of Devon remain exceptionally low and continue to drop and will remain so for the foreseeable future, without sustained rainfall following a prolonged period of drought.

"We are asking customers today to redouble their efforts and do more to save water to avoid further restrictions and protect the region's precious water resources. It is essential that people living in, or visiting the South West do all they can now to reduce the amount of water they use.

"The South West has experienced its fourth driest period since records began over 130 years ago alongside the hottest temperatures ever recorded in the region this summer adding more pressure on water resources.

"We know our customers have worked hard to reduce their usage already, but we are asking everyone to continue to work together to protect the water in the South West.

'All measures possible to protect supplies'

"We are continuing to work around the clock to fix more leaks across our network than ever before and provide customers with the necessary advice and tools to cut their usage.

"The Met Office isn't currently forecasting significant and sustained rain into the autumn months, so we are expecting continued and serious pressure on reservoir levels this winter.

"We are taking all measures possible to protect vital water supplies, which may include further restrictions in line with our Drought Plan.

"Working closely with the Environment Agency, we are exploring all options and taking all necessary steps to minimise the risk to water supplies, especially in those areas where temporary restrictions have already been applied, if the prolonged dry weather continues and demand doesn't decrease".

You can find tips on how to save water on South West Water's website.