Several households in Hastings experienced disruption on Christmas Day due to a burst water main that led to a loss of running water. Southern Water reported that approximately 100 customers in the area, with postcodes TN34, TN35, TN37, and TN38, either had low water pressure or no water supply at all. The company responded by setting up a bottled water station and providing supplies directly to affected residents. The issue was caused by low water levels at Fairlight Reservoir and a power outage at Brede Water Supply Works.
Southern Water informed the public that efforts were ongoing to restore water supply in Hastings, mentioning that both supply works were functioning well. However, they cautioned that there might still be intermittent disruptions. The company stated that it would take a few days for the drinking water reservoirs to return to normal levels and assured regular updates to the community. As a precaution, a bottled water station was opened at Pelham Place Car Park in Hastings.
Helena Dollimore, the Labour MP for Hastings and Rye, expressed frustration, holding Southern Water accountable for the situation. Tania Flasck, director of water operations at Southern Water, reassured residents that the teams were working tirelessly to resolve the water supply issue. She urged residents to use water judiciously to aid in refilling the reservoir promptly and minimizing the risk of further interruptions.