South West Water has repaired more than 26,700 leaks across Devon and Cornwall over the last 12 months – the equivalent of 73 leaks a day - as part of its ongoing work to tackle leakage and improve network resilience across the region.
Since 2020 South West Water has doubled the size of its leakage detection teams, helping identify and repair leaks more quickly across the region.
The teams are stepping up efforts to tackle water loss across the region – the South West experienced five heatwaves this summer, and hot, dry weather placed additional pressure on water resources.
South West Water is investing in specialist teams, new technology and its network to find hidden leaks earlier and reduce water loss.
Over the last 12 months, South West Water has:
- Repaired more than 26,700 leaks
- Detected 12.5% more leaks
- Continued investing in specialist leak detection technology, including acoustic monitoring and leak detection dogs
- Supported customers after identifying that around 30% of leaks are associated with customer-owned pipework
To locate hidden leaks, the dedicated leakage teams use acoustic monitoring technology, satellite imagery, drones and specially trained leak detection dogs. Once identified, each leak is assessed based on factors including the volume of water being lost, potential impact on customers, environmental impact and any safety risks.
This enables teams to prioritise repairs where they can make the greatest immediate difference while planning more complex repairs safely and effectively. Around 30% of the leaks identified by South West Water are associated with customer-owned pipework.
The company supports customers through repair schemes and water efficiency initiatives, helping identify and tackle leaks on private property.
Chris Kingscott, Supporting Active Leakage Control Project Officer from South West Water, said:
"Customers rightly expect us to tackle leakage, particularly at a time when water resources are under increased pressure and people are being asked to use water wisely. That's why reducing leakage remains one of our biggest priorities.
"Over the last 12 months we've repaired more than 26,700 leaks across the region, while continuing to invest in new technology and specialist teams to help find hidden leaks faster and target repairs where they can make the biggest difference.”
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