A regional hosepipe ban for Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire begins Saturday as South East Water addresses low water levels and financial uncertainty.

A group of institutional investors holding £17bn of Thames Water debt is bolstering legal support amid speculation about a special administration regime. The consortium maintains its goal is a solvent restructuring while preparing for potential government involvement.

A consortium of creditors is preparing for legal action to challenge a potential government takeover of Thames Water, as they push their own £10bn rescue plan.