River Test Drought Order application
On August 28 2025 the Planning Inspectorate will hold a hearing to discuss our Drought Order application for the River Test.
Why are we applying for a Drought Order?
We follow a strict legal process, set by the government and regulators, to make sure we are taking the correct steps to continue to supply water to our customers while mitigating any negative environmental impact.
Following the driest spring in 132 years, which has caused water shortages across the country, we have to plan for contingencies should this prolonged dry spell continue. A Drought Order would allow us to continue to take water from the River Test to keep customers’ taps running.
We anticipate a decision to be made soon by the Secretary of State following the hearing. We will publish a news story to the website and local media when this decision is made.
Notice of Public Hearing
The Planning Inspectorate are currently scheduled to hold a public hearing on the River Test Drought Order Application and the Non-Essential Use Ban Drought Order Application at 10am to 5pm on Thursday 28 August 2025 on Microsoft Teams.
If you plan to attend, please advise the Planning Inspectorate at ETC@planninginspectorate.gov.uk to request access to the meeting link.
There's a possibility that the hearing could be cancelled at short notice. This could happen any time right up until the hearing is due to start, as outstanding objections could be resolved or withdrawn at the last moment.