Environment Agency issues drought permit to help refill Derbyshire reservoirs – with water levels 37% lower than usual despite recent wet weather

With drought continuing to impact Derbyshire and the East Midlands, the Environment Agency has approved a drought permit application to help refill the Carsington and Ogston reservoirs.

The drought permit changes abstraction licence conditions that stipulate when and how much water can be taken from the River Derwent. The permit enables Severn Trent Water to secure public water supplies, should below-average rainfall continue.

The Environment Agency’s East Midlands area has been in drought since July 15 this year. Recent intermittently wet weather has not been enough to break the spell, and drought conditions may well persist into next year.

Reservoirs across the East Midlands are below their usual water levels at this time of the year. At the end of October, in total, they were 48% full – compared with 85% at the same time last year.

The Environment Agency has approved the permit application after careful consideration, and following the water company’s public consultation.

Bryan Hemmings, East Midlands drought manager at the Environment Agency, said: “We only issue a drought permit if there are clear plans in place to mitigate any impact on the environment – along with strong evidence from the water company of their ongoing commitment to reduce leaks, improve water efficiency and conserve water.

“We’ll continue to work closely with Severn Trent Water as it develops long-term solutions to protect water resources while drought conditions continue across East Midlands.”

While the autumn and winter months are usually wetter, there is no guarantee that there will be enough rain to replenish rivers and reservoirs after months of predominantly dry weather.

If rainfall remains below average, having the drought permit in place will allow Severn Trent to take action to safeguard the public water supply.

Severn Trent Water will have to inform the Environment Agency before using the drought permit. The water company will also have to carry out monitoring and mitigation to assess and manage potential environmental impacts.

A wet autumn and winter are needed to reverse the impact of months of below-average rainfall. It can take a long time to fully replenish aquifers, rivers and reservoirs. There are simple steps people can take to help conserve water, including shorter showers, using water from washing-up to water plants, and fixing leaky taps and toilets. More tips at https://waterwise.org.uk/how-to-save-water/