Water firm dismisses drought fears

UNITED Utilities insist water stocks across the north west are at nearly 90 per cent after a picture emerged of an almost empty reservoir north of Bury.

The picture shows a very low water level in Cowpe Reservoir in Lancashire following the recent dry spell.

A spokesman for United Utilities stressed that water stocks across its 150 above and below ground reservoirs in the north west were currently at 89.7 per cent.

The average for this time of year is 90 per cent.

He said there could be a series of reasons explaining why Cowpe Reservoir appeared to be almost empty.

He stressed that reports of severe drought conditions in the south were not being mirrored in the north west.

“We’re not worried and nor should the public be,” he said.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “Following a dry winter, some rivers, ground waters and reservoirs are lower than normal for the time of year.

“We always advise that everyone uses water wisely - especially during a period of dry weather - and to follow the advice of their water company should water saving measures be required. The Environment Agency, water companies, businesses and farmers are working together to minimise any potential impacts to people and the environment should the dry weather continue.”