We know that there have been challenges in The Weald in recent years. With an ever-changing climate and increased water usage causing supply interruptions and service disruption, we have taken significant steps to enhance our water network and ensure a more reliable and sustainable water supply for local communities.
Following water supply issues towards the end of 2022, we worked with Helen Grant MP to distribute £30,000 to 20 good causes across Maidstone and The Weald, with £1,500 given to each project via our Community Fund.
Our commitment to improving the water infrastructure in this region has been a top priority, with several significant projects already completed or underway.
Among these is the construction of a £39 million state-of-the-art water treatment facility right here in Kent.
This advanced facility represents one of the largest investments in the local water network in recent years and is designed to enhance water quality and improve supply reliability for thousands of residents in the county.
It will take a large amount of demand off of the wider network, meaning more fresh drinking water will be available for the residents of The Weald.
Desmond Brown, Head of Engineering said: “This treatment facility will be able to supply 20 million litres of fresh drinking water per day, it not only addresses current demand but is also a key part of our strategy to future-proof water supplies against the pressures of population growth and climate change.”
Additionally, we have made crucial investments in the water distribution network across The Weald. Last year, we completed a £350,000 project in Hawkhurst, replacing over a kilometre of ageing pipes. This upgrade was vital to reducing leaks and improving water pressure for local residents, ensuring a smoother and more dependable supply.
Work has also started on another major project in Headcorn. This £700,000 initiative will see over a kilometre of pipe installed along Tilden Road, further strengthening the water network and minimising service disruptions in this area. This project shows how committed we are to provide a reliable supply of water in areas where demand is increasing due to large scale developments.
These investments are part of South East Water’s commitment to spend £489 million on network improvements between 2020 and 2025, ensuring we continue to meet the demands of our growing population while maintaining our commitment to delivering high-quality drinking water.
But we are not stopping there. Looking ahead, we have recently unveiled our most ambitious business plan ever, with £1.9 billion in planned investments over the next five years, starting in 2025. This new business plan represents our continued commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable water network for the future.
We understand that there is always room for improvement, and we are dedicated to delivering the high standards that our customers deserve. Through continuous investment and innovative projects, South East Water is determined to provide a reliable, high-quality water supply that the people of The Weald can depend on, now and for generations to come.