Fighting for reliable water supply

Councillors James Flanagan and Peter Old have sought answers from South East Water over this summer’s supply failures.

Creaking pipelines have repeatedly burst across Chestfield Ward, triggering dry taps and traffic tailbacks.

"Homes, particularly in Broomfield Gate and Radfall, suffered disruption or low pressure," said James. “For some homes in the area, this issue has been ongoing for over ten years. That’s totally unacceptable.”

Last month, James and Peter arranged a meeting between South East Water management and residents in Broomfield Gate and Radfall to address this problem.

The company explained its upgrade works at the Thanington storage tank to stabilise supply to the one connected at Radfall. This should help to avoid future disruption on the scale seen this summer. They are also installing backup batteries to prevent sudden power fluctuations from knocking out the pumps entirely.

“We will keep pressing the utility to ensure these upgrades are made,” said Peter.

“Nobody wants a repeat of what happened this summer – residents shouldn’t have to worry if water will be there when they turn on their taps.”

“Water companies should be statutory planning consultees” say Lib Dems

The Liberal Democrats are pushing for water companies to become required consultees on all planning applications. At present, water companies have a legal requirement to connect new homes regardless of capacity. New housing developments frequently overwhelm local sewage networks.

Making water companies required ‘statutory’ consultees lets companies flag infrastructure risks to local councils before development can begin.

Lib Dem MPs introduced amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to secure this vital change – but the Labour government repeatedly turned down these proposals believing they will slow down house building.

“The government seems intent on higher housing targets for our area without asking water companies for their views,” said James Flanagan. “It’s incredible that in 2026, with the amount of house-building proposed, water companies aren’t statutory consultees. This just shows the government are driving through housebuilding without any consideration for infrastructure.”