South East Water: Investigation launched into water company following supply loss in Sussex
An investigation has been launched into South East Water after thousands of customers in parts of Kent and Sussex lost their supplies.
Tens of thousands of customers have had no water or intermittent supplies since Saturday (January 10).
South East Water attributed the incident to ‘the recent cold weather and a subsequent breakout of leaks’.
The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) – the quality regulator for public water supplies in England and Wales – said it is ‘aware of several loss of water supply incidents’ and has launched an investigation.
A DWI spokesperson said: “The Inspectorate has commenced an investigation into the incidents, which will include consideration of the circumstances leading up to the loss of supply, the actions taken by the company during the event, and its communications with consumers.
“The Inspectorate will take appropriate enforcement action, within its statutory powers, where required, to protect public health and to plan and prepare for loss of supply incidents.
“Consumers should follow the advice provided by South East Water if they are within the affected areas and should contact South East Water in the first instance if they require further information or wish to raise concerns.”
South East Water has been approached for comment.