Image description: Water spraying from a hose. Photo by Oliver Li on Unsplash

The Environment Agency has issued 17 drought permits to Yorkshire Water in response to ongoing dry conditions affecting water supplies across the region. As reported by the UK Government, the permits will allow Yorkshire Water to take additional water from rivers and reservoirs to maintain public water supply levels.

According to the Environment Agency, the permits were granted following a period of consultation and environmental assessment to ensure minimal ecological impact. The permits cover various locations across Yorkshire, including the River Wharfe and reservoirs such as Thruscross and Fewston.

Yorkshire Water has stated that despite recent rainfall, it will take significant and sustained precipitation over several months to restore river and reservoir levels to normal. The company emphasised that the drought permits are a precautionary measure to safeguard drinking water supplies.

In addition to issuing drought permits, the Environment Agency is working with water companies and stakeholders to develop long-term resilience plans. These include investment in infrastructure, improved leakage management, and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing water consumption. The agency has reiterated its commitment to balancing environmental protection with the need to maintain essential water services.