Anglian Water outlines response to manage water supplies while 'operating in challenging environment' due to hot weather

Anglian Water has responded to a letter from Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes who contacted the body over concerns from residents in the city about low water pressure.

Anglian Water has previously asked residents to help save water where they can” following record-breaking May temperatures in the city.

Peterborough sweltered in temperatures north of 30C over the bank holiday weekend, leading to some residents experiencing lower-than-usual water pressure.

In its response, Anglian Water said that it was ‘operating in a challenging environment with sustained high demand and localised pressures emerging across parts of our network.;

The letter from Chief Executive Mark Thurston stated: “Periods of prolonged high temperatures significantly increase demand for water, while also placing additional strain on the network.

"We recognise the heightened public health risks at these times particularly for children in vulnerable situations and keeping supplies reliable is our highest priority.

"The situation has also been affected by recent electrical storms, which present an additional operational risk to our infrastructure, including treatment works and pumping assets."

Anglian Water’s response

- Increasing real-time monitoring of flows, pressures and demand across the system

- Deploying additional operational times to respond quickly to emerging issues

- Adjusting network operations where needed to balance demand and protect supplies to critical area

- Prioritising repairs to restores supplies as quickly as possible where interruptions occur

- Providing clear public guidance on using water wisely during periods of demand

- Offering targeted support for customers in vulnerable situations or with additional needs, including those medical dependencies

- Maintaining readiness to deploy bottles water and alternative supplies where interruptions occur