Government, Environment Agency, and water companies step up efforts to prevent England remaining in drought by next spring
Summary
The Environment Agency reports that England remains in drought across much of the country, with water companies urged to maintain leakage reduction and demand management through autumn and winter. New modelling suggests above-average rainfall will be needed over the next seven months to fully end drought conditions by April 2027 in all areas.
Why it matters
Prolonged drought can affect water availability for occupied homes, development sites and building services, while also increasing the likelihood of future restrictions and resilience measures. Surveyors may need to consider local water stress, drainage and landscape impacts, and the implications of water-efficiency requirements in new homes.
Key points
- Almost three-quarters of England remains in drought after a dry spring and summer.
- The National Drought Group is meeting weekly to monitor conditions and coordinate response.
- Water companies are being pressed to keep fixing leaks and reducing demand.
- Government plans include new reservoirs, desalination, water transfers and efficiency measures.
- Some areas, including Devon & Cornwall and East Anglia, may still be in drought by April 2027.
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