Drought order proposed for River Severn

A drought order on the River Severn could soon affect communities in Shropshire, as regulators warn that record‑breaking dry weather is pushing the river system to its limits.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has applied to the Welsh Government for a Drought Order on the Severn, for the first time in 37 years.

The Environment Agency has submitted a matching application for the English stretch, which includes Shropshire's section of the river, running through Melverley, Shrewsbury, Ironbridge and Bridgnorth.

If approved, the order would temporarily reduce the minimum amount of water legally required in the river.

Huwel Manley, Head of Operations at NRW, said the toll of the dry weather is "clear for everyone to see", with rivers across Wales and the border counties now at historic lows.

He added: "At times like this water is a precious resource. Every drop we waste is less water for our rivers and wildlife when they need it the most."

The order would impose an initial 5% reduction in the amount of water that Hafren Dyfrdwy - the company supplying parts of north Shropshire - is allowed to abstract.

Regulators say the aim is to "stretch" remaining water supplies over a longer period and prevent sudden drops in flow that could cause irreparable harm to river habitats and migratory fish.

The drought orders, if granted, would remain in place for up to six months.

Regulators say river levels and reservoir storage should recover once normal rainfall returns, but warn that water companies and the public must continue to use water wisely to protect supplies for people and nature.

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