NFU seeks farmers' comments surrounding cold-weather water interruptions

The NFU is collecting information from members about their experiences of burst mains
The NFU is collecting information from members about their experiences of burst mains

Comments from farmers are needed as a water regulator carries out a performance review following water disruptions caused by the recent severe weather.

The water regulator Ofwat is to carry out the review, and the NFU is seeking comments from farmers affected.

The union will be working closely with the Consumer Council for Water in making representations to Ofwat on behalf of the farming community.

The inquiry will establish the causes of the issues experienced by customers and assess the water companies’ preparations ahead of the well-flagged cold snap, including an appraisal of the resources and processes they had in place.

Ofwat will also be pressing water companies to make swift and sufficient compensation payments to affected customers.

The intervention of the water regulator was signalled last week by environment minister, Dr Therese Coffey.

She told Parliament: “Once the situation is restored to normal, we expect Ofwat to formally review the performance of the companies during this period.

“That will be a thorough review. The Government will consider any recommendations from the review and act decisively to address any shortcomings exposed.”

The NFU is collecting information from members about their experiences of burst mains and water shortages, and how their water wholesalers and retailers dealt with the emergency.