Residents in Sussex are being urged to save water as levels at Ardingly Reservoir continue to fall.
South East Water says the reservoir is now less than a third full, with supplies expected to last only six weeks unless action is taken. A hosepipe ban has been in place across the county since mid-July, but demand and dry conditions have left stocks critically low.
To protect supplies, the company has been granted permission to pump water into Ardingly from the River Ouse.
Ardingly is one of the most important reservoirs in the South East, supplying drinking water to thousands of homes and businesses across Mid Sussex, Crawley, and beyond. It also plays a role in maintaining local river flows and supporting wildlife habitats, making its decline a concern for both people and the environment.
Simple steps at home can make a significant difference, these include turning off the tap while brushing teeth can save up to six litres a minute, while fixing dripping taps could save more than 5,000 litres of water a year. Using a bowl to wash dishes, running washing machines and dishwashers only when full, and collecting rainwater for gardens are other easy ways to reduce demand.
Residents are being reminded that conserving water not only secures household supply but also helps protect the wider environment that depends on Ardingly Reservoir.
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