Thousands in North Sussex Faces Water Crisis – Forced to Drive Miles for Bottled Water
Water Cuts Hit Huge Swathes of Sussex and Kent
Thousands of residents across North Sussex are left stranded without running water. The disruption stretches from Pease Pottage in the west, through Crowborough in the east, and into Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Locals have been forced to drive up to eight miles just to collect bottled water.
Water Bottle Stations Set Up but Not Enough
South East Water has deployed bottled water stations at several key spots, including:
- Tesco Superstore, Woodgate Corner
- Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4NE
- East Grinstead Rugby Football Club, The Gearon Pavilion, Saint Hill Road, RH19 4JU
But these haven’t helped everyone – especially in Crowborough, where over 20,000 people have been without water since Saturday and no water stations are available locally.
Outraged Locals Voice Fury on Social Media
Residents have slammed the water company for the ordeal. One said, “My husband has been to Crawley, Horsham, Broadbridge Heath – all supermarkets are sold out of bottled water.”
Another fumed, “Do you expect us all to take a 30-minute drive for water? Absolutely disgusting! Zero water, no trickle, and no clue when it’ll return!”
A third added, “I haven’t been able to find bottled water anywhere in Crowborough.”
South East Water Apologises, Promises Repairs
South East Water admitted cold weather damaged underground pipes, causing bursts and low water pressure.
“We’re really sorry to customers in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas that have experienced no water or low pressure,” the company said.
“Our crews are working around the clock to fix bursts and leaks. Tankers are being used to keep water flowing as long as possible. We urge residents to check for leaks in lofts, airing cupboards, and outside taps.”
The firm advises everyone without water to keep checking www.southeastwater.co.uk for updates.
