West Berkshire Groundwater Scheme

Published: 14 August 2026

🌊 Local River Update: West Berkshire Groundwater Scheme (WBGWS)

The Environment Agency (EA) will be turning on the West Berkshire Groundwater Scheme to help manage the ongoing drought in the Thames region.

What is the WBGWS?
It's a network of underground boreholes and pipes built in the 1970s. During severe droughts, the EA uses it to pump groundwater directly into local rivers (including the Pang). This water flows downstream into the River Thames, where Thames Water abstracts it to maintain public drinking water supplies for London.

Where does abstraction and discharge happen?
Upstream abstraction: Pumping takes place at the top end of the valley (around the West/East Ilsley and Compton areas).
Discharge location: The scheme pumps out the water into the River Pang downstream of Bucklebury village.

Start date: Pumping is scheduled to begin in phases from 24 August 2026.

Higher river flows: You will see a noticeable increase in water levels and flow along the River Pang.
Please take extra care if walking dogs or children along footpaths near the water's edge.

EA presence: You may see more EA personnel around the area conducting routine environmental and water-quality testing while the scheme is active.

Reporting issues: If you spot any problems along the river, you can report them to the EA Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60.