Water restored to most homes in Kent and Sussex after days of disruption

Water supplies have been restored to the majority of homes in Kent and Sussex after outages linked to Storm Goretti, though around 320 properties remain affected and bottled water sites are open; Ofwat has launched an investigation into South East Water's response.

Water supplies have been restored to the majority of homes across Kent and Sussex after an outage that began on 10 January. South East Water said the disruption followed Storm Goretti, which caused burst pipes and power cuts. At the height of the incident the company reported about 30,000 customers without water or with low pressure. The firm said it implemented a recovery plan that included switching off local booster pumps so storage tanks could refill. Key facts: - South East Water reported the outage began on 10 January and attributed it to Storm Goretti causing burst pipes and power cuts. - At peak, about 30,000 customers across Kent and Sussex were without water or experiencing low pressure. - The company said water supplies to 6,500 properties in Tunbridge Wells have been restored, while roughly 320 properties in Bidborough remain affected and are being supported by tanker deliveries. - Ofwat has launched an investigation into whether South East Water breached licence conditions; the regulator has said potential outcomes could include special administration or fines up to 10% of annual turnover. - Bottled water collection sites remain open at locations including Tunbridge Wells Rugby Football Club, Odeon Cinema, RCP Car Park and Mote Park Leisure Centre, with a walk-in site at Bidborough Village Hall. Summary: Most homes in the affected areas have had water returned and pressure is rebuilding, though a small number of properties continue to receive tanker support. Ofwat is carrying out an investigation into South East Water's handling of the disruption and its compliance with licence conditions. Possible outcomes mentioned by the regulator include placing the supplier into a special administration regime or imposing fines.