Following the record-breaking dry spring and summer periods, Carsington Reservoir level was low. On the 22 October 2025 we applied to the Environment Agency (EA) for a Drought Permit. The drought permit was granted to allow us to continue to abstract water from the River Derwent should river levels remain low. We have now revoked our drought permit which came into effect on 3rd November 2025.

During the effective period, the drought permit has not been used due to naturally high river levels.

Storage has significantly increased at Carsington and Ogston reservoirs. Based on current hydrological conditions, we also expect river flows to remain at normal to above-normal levels in the coming weeks, further reducing any ongoing requirement for the permit.