ENGLAND’S waterways are under mounting pressure, with almost three-quarters of the country still in drought.
Fresh modelling suggests every region may need 120% of its usual rainfall to escape drought by April 2027. The National Drought Group is meeting weekly, bringing together ministers, regulators, water companies, farmers and environmental organisations. Suppliers have been ordered to curb leaks, follow drought plans and manage demand. Ministers are also pursuing nine major reservoirs by 2050, desalination plants and water-transfer schemes. A £65 million package will aid drought-hit farmers, including up to £15m for on-farm reservoirs, while £100m will bolster defences against extreme weather and wildfires.
Northern England is expected to recover first, followed by the Midlands and parts of the south. Devon, Cornwall and East Anglia could remain in drought into spring 2027.
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