United Utilities says water will only be pumped as a last resort

United Utilities wants "drought measures" put in place to safeguard the region's water supply.

It had applied to the Environment Agency for permission to pump the water from Windermere and Ullswater in the Lake District.

On Tuesday, the agency issued permits to allow water to be pumped from the lakes to maintain stocks in the company's Haweswater and Thirlmere reservoirs.

It follows a two-day public hearing by an independent inspector.

The permits suspend existing annual limits on water that can be taken from the two lakes.

Environmental protection

They also allow for water to be pumped in dry conditions, as long as there are adequate water flows in the Rivers Eamont and Leven.

The agency stressed additional measures included in the drought permits will ensure wildlife, especially salmon, are given adequate protection.

United Utilities' request followed very dry summer and autumn weather.

Reservoir levels in the Lake District, which provide much of the North West's tap water, are well down compared with the average for the time of year.

Last resort

Without an exceptionally wet winter there will be a likelihood of water supply problems next spring and summer.

The water company said the permits will only be used as a last resort, as it is hoped the supply will be replenished.

The company is continuing other measures to boost supplies and conserve reservoir storage.

These include using its regional water grid to move supplies around the North West, pumping more water from the River Dee and drawing on reserve sources such as boreholes.