South East Water resilience plan progress is delivering improvements to network capacity, water quality protection and operational performance across parts of the south east of England.
South East Water has provided an update on its six-month programme of works aimed at improving the reliability of water supplies for 2.3 million customers across Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire.
South East Water resilience plan progress improves capacity and reliability
The programme, launched earlier in 2026, focuses on engineering upgrades and operational changes following recent supply interruptions. The improvements are expected to benefit more than 24,000 households in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas.
Key works have been completed at major treatment sites, alongside wider network upgrades designed to strengthen resilience and reduce the risk of future disruption.
Upgrades at Pembury and Tonbridge treatment works
At Pembury Water Treatment Works, two new filters have been installed to enhance treatment processes, increase capacity and reduce the risk of water quality issues. The upgrades also enable additional supply flexibility from Bewl Water Treatment Works when required.
At Tonbridge Water Treatment Works, three carbon filters are now operational, adding approximately 1.5 million litres per day to the network. These improvements are designed to strengthen filtration performance and mitigate contamination risks.
Pipeline improvements and network resilience
Engineering work on the Bewl to Cottage Hill transfer main has been completed, with final testing underway. Once operational, the pipeline will provide a new supply route to the Wadhurst area of Sussex, improving resilience in a region previously affected by supply interruptions.
In addition, a programme to increase and optimise spare equipment stock has been completed, supporting faster response times and reducing the risk of prolonged outages.
Ongoing focus on supply resilience
The resilience plan combines infrastructure investment with operational changes, including updated maintenance schedules and revised testing procedures for treatment sites.
South East Water has stated that while progress has been made, further work will continue to strengthen the network and improve customer outcomes.
David Hinton, Chief Executive of South East Water, said the upgrades form part of a wider effort to reduce the risk of future supply interruptions and improve service reliability.
For more on UK water infrastructure and resilience, visit our Water Management coverage.
