Essex & Suffolk Water has said it is reviewing the situation over potential temporary restrictions after the Environment Agency formally declared drought across seven parts of England, including areas of East Anglia.
Company monitoring supplies and demand
An Essex & Suffolk Water spokesperson said the firm is working to protect both customers and the environment following “extremely hot and dry conditions” this summer. The firm has not yet implemented a hosepipe ban, setting it apart from neighbouring suppliers who have already introduced temporary use restrictions.
“We’re reviewing the situation following the EA’s drought announcement today. We’re keen to do everything we can to support our customers and help protect the environment after the extremely hot and dry conditions we’ve seen in the area over the last few months.”
Any decision to impose a ban will hinge on forthcoming weather, continued consumer demand and reservoir performance. Current stocks are below long-term averages: both Hanningfield and Abberton reservoirs were reported at 72% full on Tuesday 21 July.
Why supplies are under pressure
The company says demand has risen by 13%, which it quantifies as about an extra 56 million litres a day — roughly the amount needed to supply the combined populations of Basildon and Southend. Minimal rainfall in July has reduced river flows and contributed to reservoir depletion, while soil moisture is substantially lower than normal.
| Measure | Reported value |
|---|---|
| Hanningfield and Abberton reservoirs | 72% full |
| Increase in demand | 13% |
| Additional water required per day | 56 million litres |
| Soil dryness compared to average | 129% drier |
Neighbouring suppliers, including Anglian Water and Affinity Water, have already announced bans on certain household uses of hosepipes. Essex & Suffolk Water currently remains the only supplier in the South East not to have introduced a temporary use ban, but has not ruled out the possibility of doing so if conditions worsen.
Practical implications for customers
At present there are no mandatory restrictions for Essex & Suffolk Water customers, but households and businesses are being asked to continue saving water where possible. Simple measures that reduce demand can help delay or avoid formal bans. These include:
- Cutting down on non-essential outdoor water use, such as watering gardens with hoses
- Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads
- Fixing dripping taps and shorter showers
Essex & Suffolk Water says it will keep customers informed and that any formal restrictions would be announced in advance. The company is also highlighting the environmental risks of sustained low river flows and depleted soils if the dry spell continues.
The Environment Agency’s drought declarations are used to co‑ordinate action across water companies and other agencies. For now, residents in Suffolk should be alert to further updates and follow industry guidance on reducing water use to protect supplies this summer.
