Thousands in North Sussex Left Dry as Burst Pipes Spark Water Crisis
Thousands across North Sussex, from Pease Pottage to Crowborough and into Tunbridge Wells, Kent, have been plunged into a running water blackout. Residents are forced to trek up to eight miles by car to collect bottled water amid ongoing pipe bursts.
Crisis Zones and Water Stations Spread Thin
The affected stretch spans from Pease Pottage in the west, through Crowborough, right into Tunbridge Wells. But there’s a catch: Crowborough, home to over 20,000 people, has NO running water and NO nearby water station. Many locals have been without water since Saturday.
Bottle refill points have been set up, but locations are scarce and distant. Key water stations include:
- Tesco Superstore, Woodgate Corner, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4NE
- East Grinstead Rugby Football Club, The Gearon Pavilion, Saint Hill Road, East Grinstead, RH19 4JU
Residents in Handcross and Pease Pottage face a 10-mile round trip to grab essential bottled water.
South East Water Apologises Amid Pipe Burst Havoc
“We’re really sorry to customers in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas that have experienced no water or low pressure,” South East Water said.
The cold snap has ramped up the number of bursts and leaks in the underground network, dropping crucial reservoir levels. Repair crews are working round the clock, with tankers injecting water to maintain supply.
“It’s impossible to predict which pipes will burst and where,” the company explained. “Please check for leaks in lofts, airing cupboards and outside taps.”
Residents Furious, Desperate on Social Media
Anger and frustration have boiled over online. One local revealed, “My husband has been to Crawley, Horsham, Broadbridge Heath—every supermarket is sold out.”
Another blasted, “Do you propose to suggest it’s acceptable the nearest water station for Pease Pottage residents is a 30-minute drive away, assuming all have vehicles? Absolutely disgusting! Zero water. Not even a trickle. No idea when it’ll be back!”
A Crowborough resident lamented, “I haven’t been able to find bottled water anywhere in town.”
South East Water urges anyone affected to keep checking their website for live updates and advice.
