24 June 2010
With no rain in sight and reservoir levels continuing to fall, the company may soon need access to more of the North West's water resources and this week it will apply to the Environment Agency for a drought permit.
The drought permit relates to Ennerdale Water in West Cumbria and, if granted, it will allow the company to continue to take water from the lake as it reaches lower levels. It will also ensure there is no adverse effect on the River Ehen by continuing to release water from the lake into the river.
John Sanders, United Utilities Water Regulation and Strategy Manager, said: "It's been an unprecedented period of dry weather since December 2009, and we need to take action now so we can tap into available water resources if the dry weather continues."
There is a legal process to be followed for drought permit applications and people will have the opportunity to make comments about it before the Environment Agency makes its decision.
United Utilities is also encouraging customers to play their part by using water wisely. A radio and newspaper advertising campaign has been running throughout the North West since last week.
John added: "Now, more than ever we need people to use water wisely. We're monitoring the situation day by day, but if we don't have any significant rainfall by the end of this month we will need a hosepipe ban to help conserve essential supplies.
"Of course we need to balance the needs of our customers with the needs of the environment. By using water wisely we can all help to maintain supplies and keep rivers flowing."
After the very wet Autumn last year the weather pattern has changed dramatically and since December there has been only half the average amount of rainfall.
John added: "At the start of December, our reservoirs were 96% full, but because of the low rainfall since then, they are now well down for the time of year. We have taken early action to move water around the region to even out supplies, and we are also bringing groundwater reserves into use.
"With the dry weather continuing, there are simple things we can all do to save water like not running the tap while brushing your teeth."
There are lots of hints and tips on how to use water wisely. You can also request a free water saver's pack, which includes a save-a-flush device to cut water use by a litre every time you flush the toilet.
See everything you need to know about droughts and get regular updates here.