Wed, 03 Dec 2025

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 Boil water warning after Kent and Sussex supply failure

The Prime Minister calls Kent water crisis “shocking” as 24,000 homes are warned to boil water.
24,000 households in Kent and East Sussex are facing water supply issues again due to a "water quality issue", according to South East Water (SEW). The company expects supplies to be restored by midday on Thursday. Residents have been advised to boil their water before drinking. Schools have closed and residents have had to rely on neighbors for support. Bottled water stations will reopen on Thursday morning, but the water station at RCP Parking's site will not be open due to an event. The Prime Minister has expressed concern over the situation, with Sir Keir Starmer describing it as "shocking". Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has declared a "major incident" and businesses are set to lose earnings due to the water problems. Residents have spoken out about their concerns, including a pregnant woman who is worried about the water quality. The company's response has been criticized by business owners, with one cafe owner saying it was "shambolic". A full investigation into the matter will be carried out, and South East Water has apologized for the inconvenience caused.
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