When we had the hosepipe ban in 2006, it was the result of low water resources held naturally in aquifers. According to Thames Water, the period between November 2004 and January 2006 was the driest for more than 80 years, surpassing even the drought of 1974-76.

During this time, the well for the bowling green did not dry out and the surface of the park did not start to crack up.

As Thames Water does not contemplate a further ban this year, as far as I know, they must be satisfied that in the Thames Valley there must be sufficient resources underground in the aquifers. This in my book indicates that this drying out must be a localised problem.

Stand under the Parkway bridge on the Wharf side and you will see two black flexible pipes hanging down the pier and discharging water into the Kennet. It doesn't need a hydraulic engineer to guess that the volume of water being discharged must have an effect on the area.

I don't quite see why the Town Council should foot any bills for a survey. WBC should look to take on board the responsibility as they are, presumably, duty bound to ensure that Costain have not screwed up. That's sits, as far as I can see, directly in the remit of building control.