Paul Murphy

Prolonged hot and dry weather has produced the most difficult harvest in 65 years for a Lincolnshire vegetable farm, with cabbages, cauliflowers, broccoli and other crops growing to around half their expected size. Farmers and industry experts warn that reduced supplies of potatoes, carrots and vegetables will cause shortages and higher prices, while drought-hit European countries may be unable to fill the gap. The UK government has announced grants for reservoirs and irrigation, but the National Farmers' Union says the measures do not resolve the immediate crisis. Researchers and farmers say consumers and supermarkets may need to accept smaller or misshapen produce as climate change increases pressure on food production.

Plans for the Three Oaks Renewable Energy Park in the East Yorkshire Wolds have advanced with a formal submission to the local council for six large wind turbines. Developers state the project will supply renewable power to 24,000 homes and include a £5m community fund, while residents have raised concerns about visual and noise impacts. The proposal, one of the largest since the easing of onshore wind restrictions, will now undergo public consultation, with construction possible from 2028 if approved.

Plans for six large wind turbines in the East Yorkshire Wolds advanced with the submission of formal proposals for the Three Oaks Renewable Energy Park. Ridge Clean Energy said the project, combined with an approved solar farm and battery storage, would generate power for 24,000 homes and include a community benefit fund. Local residents raised concerns about visual and noise impacts, while the developer stated the scheme had been sensitively designed following technical assessments. Public consultation is now open, and construction could begin in 2028 if approved.

Residents in Barton-upon-Humber voiced frustration over a hosepipe ban imposed by Anglian Water while several local water leaks remain unrepaired. Recent pipe bursts and ongoing leaks have led to road closures, prompting complaints about wasted water and unchanged billing despite restrictions. Anglian Water attributed the burst pipes to shifting ground caused by high temperatures and said repair teams were prioritising work during the heatwave. The ban, described as temporary, restricts hosepipe use for domestic activities but allows watering with a can.

Residents in Barton-upon-Humber criticise a new hosepipe ban imposed by Anglian Water while multiple water leaks remain unrepaired in the town. Locals express frustration at persistent leaks, closed roads and full water bills despite restrictions on domestic hosepipe use. Anglian Water attributes the leaks to ground movement caused by high temperatures and says teams are prioritising repairs during the hot weather.