According to a prominent government official, urgent measures must be taken to address the water supply issues in the UK, or Brits may face the prospect of sharing baths and relying on bottled water.
The Environment Secretary, Steve Reed, raised concerns about potential water rationing by the 2030s if action is not taken promptly. He emphasized the need to streamline the process for approving new reservoir construction to prevent delays. Currently, individuals have multiple opportunities to legally challenge reservoir projects, but Reed proposed limiting these challenges to expedite the construction process.
Reed highlighted the necessity of new legislation to ensure a reliable water supply for the future. Without intervention, the government may have to implement water rationing measures, requiring people to schedule their water usage and face potential disruptions in supply, similar to practices in some Mediterranean countries.
Expressing concerns over the lack of new reservoirs in the past decades, Reed outlined plans to build nine new reservoirs by 2050, with the first one expected to be completed by 2029. He stressed that the demand for clean drinking water is projected to exceed supply by the mid-2030s, leading to a critical need for additional water storage facilities.
Furthermore, Reed pledged to address the escalating issue of raw sewage discharge into England’s water bodies, aiming to enhance water quality and safeguard public health. The Environment Agency reported a significant increase in sewage spills, underscoring the urgency of taking corrective actions to protect the environment and prevent contamination of water sources.
Reflecting on personal experiences and the importance of preserving clean waterways for future generations, Reed expressed a desire to leave a positive legacy by tackling water pollution effectively. He emphasized the need for concerted efforts to clean up polluted waters and ensure that children can enjoy safe and clean environments for recreational activities.