News Free water butts offered to Maidstone residents living in areas vulnerable to flooding
Maidstone Borough Council has launched an initiative offering free rainwater harvesting sets to households living in the borough’s areas most vulnerable to surface water flooding.
The scheme, open only to residents within designated areas within the Town Centre, Parkwood and Shepway, aims to support communities facing both flooding risks and the growing challenges of water scarcity.
Over 500 water butts have been procured by the Council, with over 160 already claimed by eligible households. Each unit is a UK‑manufactured 210‑litre water butt, complete with stand and filler kit for straightforward attachment to existing guttering.
The initiative forms part of the Council’s ongoing work to support residents through climate-related events, including sudden heavy rainfall and time of water scarcity, like those currently experienced across Kent.
By capturing rainwater during wetter months, participating households can reduce localised surface water flooding by holding back over 115,000 litres of rainfall across the scheme. It can also help maintain garden plants, green spaces, and wildlife during dry spells, without added pressure on the mains water system and lower their water bills by using stored rainwater for outdoor use.
This dual benefit, flood mitigation and drought resilience, supports the Borough’s wider Biodiversity and Climate Resilience Action Plan, contributing to action B9: Targeted intervention with vulnerable groups to increase uptake of climate mitigation measures.
How the Offer Works
Eligible households within designated zones in the Town Centre, Parkwood and Shepway will receive a communication containing a unique one-use code, valid for one water butt per household. Residents can redeem their free set in-store at Wickes Maidstone (St Peter’s Street, ME16 0SN). Installation is not included.
Before collecting, residents are encouraged to check they have:
- Sufficient outdoor space for a 210‑litre butt
- Access to guttering from their house, shed, or outbuilding for installation
All claims are issued on a first come, first served basis due to limited supply.
Together with residents, Maidstone Borough Council aims to deliver over 115,000 litres of mains water savings each dry season, while helping reduce surface water pressure during peak rainfall.
Cabinet Member for Climate Transition and Nature Recovery, Councillor Rachel Rodwell said: “We are currently experiencing the results of water scarcity in Maidstone and this project provides practical support for households who are most exposed to the effects of climate change.
“From reducing surface flooding to helping gardens and local wildlife survive dry conditions, rainwater harvesting is a simple, effective way to make a difference in our community.”
Check Your Eligibility
Residents living within designated areas in Parkwood, Shepway and the Town Centre may be eligible for the scheme. You can find out if you are eligible and request your invitation letter with your unique code by emailing climateandbiodiversity@maidstone.gov.uk