Drought extends in Wales

Natural Resources Wales has extended its drought declaration.

Last week, parts of north Wales – Conwy, Anglesey, Arfon, Dwyfor, Meirionnydd, Clwyd and areas served by the River Dee and Upper Severn – joined parts of south east Wales – Vale of Glamorgan, Rhondda Cynon Taf and those served by the River Wye and Usk – in drought status.

Wales has experienced the driest six months since 1976.

In Scotland, SEPA last week moved six areas into ‘significant scarcity’ status: North Fife, Ythan, Deveron, Upper Don (Aberdeenshire), Lower Don (Aberdeenshire) and Lower Tweed. Ten areas are in ‘moderate scarcity’, five at ‘alert’ and the rest at normal or early warning levels.

• Welsh Water has launched the early market engagement for its Cwm Taf water treatment infrastructure scheme, which is to be delivered via Direct Procurement for Customers. The company is seeking a partner for the £667m project, with the contract covering finance, design, build and maintenance for a 25 year term.