Anglian Water asks Norwich to limit water use amid record low river flows

Anglian Water has urged its customers in Norwich to conserve water due to exceptionally low river flows, as the country braces for its fifth heatwave this year.

The announcement highlights the record low levels in the River Wensum, which Anglian Water depends on for supplying water to Norwich.

This depletion is causing significant stress on the river's ecosystem.

With the warnings in place, the company emphasised that customers should use water only for essential purposes to prevent potential supply issues during the extended period of dry weather.

Norwich already reports the country's lowest leakage rates per kilometre of water main, yet Anglian Water is intensifying its efforts to protect local water supplies.

Increased leak detection activities are in progress, assisted by technology like drones and smart systems.

Dr Geoff Darch, Anglian Water's Head of Strategic Asset Planning, remarked, "River flows in Norfolk, particularly in the Wensum, which feeds Norwich, are exceptionally low, and under severe pressure. To protect your local rivers, the amount of water that can be abstracted, treated, and supplied to customers is restricted. That’s why we’re asking people in Norwich and surrounding areas to go one step further and help out by only using water for essential purposes – drinking, cooking, washing and cleaning."

Despite wet winter months earlier this year, the East of England faced its second driest spring on record, and July registered as the UK's sunniest and driest.

The Environment Agency has declared a drought for the region, leading Anglian Water to institute a temporary use ban about a month ago.

According to Anglian Water, demand has reduced by 5 per cent since then, but temperatures in Norwich are predicted to soar into the 30s again.

Anglian Water encourages customers to pause before using water and asks businesses to join in the efforts to conserve this critical resource.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.