MP raises concern over 'reservoirs running dry'

An MP has voiced concerns over the falling levels of reservoirs in Devon and Cornwall, warning it highlights the challenges facing water supplies in a changing climate.

Wimbleball on Exmoor has dropped to 14.9% capacity, with Rachel Gilmore, MP for Tiverton and Minehead, saying "if you've got reservoirs that are running dry, there is obviously a problem".

South West Water (SWW) introduced a hosepipe ban in August and is also considering further restrictions that could impact businesses like car washes and window cleaners in the area supplied by the reservoir.

The company said that reservoirs levels have been "significantly impacted" by higher demand after the hottest summer on record.

The latest figures from South West Water show its four other main reservoirs are also at low levels.

In Devon, Roadford is at 36.8%, and Burrator is at 33.6% capacity.

In Cornwall, Colliford is 35% full, with Stithians levels at 21.9% - the latter was recently declared as being too shallow for water sports.

"After the summer we've had, it was obvious that water (supply) was going to be an issue", Gilmore said.

"I have said repeatedly that SWW does not invest in its assets."

"Climate change is something that is with us now and we have to act very, very swiftly", she added.

"It is serious and we are concerned" said Sam Bottomley, director of water services, speaking to the BBC at Wimbleball reservoir earlier this month.

"We need everyone to lean in.

"We need a reduction in water use and we need it to rain, to help refill the reservoirs".

Bottomley added the company was "doing everything it possibly could" to avoid more drastic water restrictions, including standpipes, last seen during the extreme summer of 1976.

The utility firm said it was also taking additional measures to reduce leaks and boost water resources across Devon and Cornwall, including plans for a new reservoir near Bristol, which would see water piped into the region.

Devon and Cornwall received 77mm of rain during September, which is 87% of the long term average for the month, according to the Environment Agency (EA).

The regulator also said rainfall for the last three months was notably low for most of the region.

A drought permit has already been issued to SWW to help maintain levels at Wimbleball, the the EA saying it would help "secure the public water supply".

Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly were among areas of England to be declared in drought in July.

According to the National Drought Group (NDG), by the start of spring 2027, Devon and Cornwall could still be in drought and "entering the traditionally dry months already with water deficits".

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