Protected chalk stream could be tapped to combat shortages

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, August 13, 2026

Southern Water has applied for a drought order to lower the minimum permitted flow from the River Test in Hampshire to maintain water supply for 165,000 residents amid severe dry conditions. The decision, pending from the Environment Secretary, raises concerns from environmental groups about potential harm to the river’s sensitive ecosystem and endangered species.

Southern Water has requested a drought order that would allow it to continue extracting water from the River Test in Hampshire even if the river’s flow drops below levels currently deemed ecologically safe. The company cited an exceptional shortage of rainfall and unusually high temperatures as the driving factors behind the application.

Under existing regulations, Southern Water is prohibited from drawing water from the River Test if flows fall below 355 megalitres per day (Ml/d). The utility has applied to lower this threshold to 265 Ml/d in order to secure water supplies for the approximately 165,000 residents in the Southampton West area, warning that without such permission, water restrictions could soon affect these consumers.

The River Test is a designated biological site of special scientific interest and supports populations of endangered species including salmon and otters. Its chalk stream environment is internationally recognized and valued for both ecological and recreational reasons, particularly fly-fishing.

Southern Water’s application has met opposition from environmental groups concerned about the potential impact on the river’s fragile ecosystem. The Angling Trust described the situation as "extremely concerning," with head of fisheries Mark Owen emphasizing that the river is already under strain. “The Test is one of England’s finest chalk streams. It cannot be treated as a reserve water supply when water companies’ resources are stretched,” he said.

A spokesman for Southern Water stressed that the drought order process is designed to ensure essential water supply during exceptional drought conditions. The consultation period on the application recently closed, and the decision now rests with Environment Secretary Angela Eagle.

The outcome will determine whether Southern Water can continue to draw reduced flows from the River Test to support the local population amid ongoing dry weather, balancing the need for water security against environmental protection mandates.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.