‘Much higher demand’: Anglian Water issues update on Peterborough water reserves after record-breaking May temperatures

Anglian Water is asking Peterborough 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.

Sam Carling, MP for North West Cambridgeshire, said “This is due to increased demand during the current heatwave, and Anglian Water have made temporary adjustments to how water is distributed across the network to avoid more widespread disruptions. “These measures are expected to remain in place throughout the week while the hot weather continues. “They're asking residents to use water for essential purposes where possible - drinking, cooking and washing - to help support network resilience.” While there are currently no plans for a hosepipe ban to be introduced in Peterborough, Anglian Water has reiterated that they use around five times more water than a watering can, and that reusing rain water to attend to lawns or plants can make a big difference, helping put less pressure on the local network.

The provider is also encouraging residents to make other small changes to their water usage until the hot weather is over.

This includes reusing paddling pool water, using washing up water to feed plants and holding off using pressure washers to clean cars.

An Anglian Water spokesperson said: “Our customers are some of the UK’s most water efficient already, which we’re really grateful for, so we’re asking for their continued support to help save water where they can.

“As always, our teams are working round the clock to keep taps flowing across our region. They treat and supply over one billion litres of clean, drinking water to our customers every day.

“But during hot weather like this, we see a much higher demand for water, which puts pressure on our networks.

“We'd really appreciate your support to help us keep as much water in the network as possible, and avoid any interruptions to your supply.

“Please think carefully about your water usage and use less water now, to help make sure that you and your community have enough water to go around.”