Organisations across Exeter are coming together to explore how free, reliable and accessible drinking water can be made more widely available in the city.
The aim is to identify practical, sustainable options for free public water refill points in the city.
The need is especially pressing during periods of hot weather, when easy access to fluids helps people reduce the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Hot weather can affect anyone, but older people, young children, people with underlying health conditions and people experiencing homelessness may face greater risks.
Free, visible water points would provide an inclusive option for people who have difficulties accessing water in retail outlets or need a drink when participating premises are closed.
The issue was discussed during a motion at Council, and councillors voted to discuss it further at future scrutiny meeting.
Cllr Lucy Findlay, Lead Councillor for City Centre at Exeter City Council, said it was important to bring together key stakeholders in the city to deliver the initiative.
Cllr Findlay said: “This is not a new challenge for Exeter. In my community safety role, I see access to free drinking water as a basic human need.
“Partnership working is the only way to address an issue like this: it is not solely about the Council, but about people and organisations coming together to create shared solutions. I am committed to helping drive this work forward with CoLab Exeter, InExeter and others.”
Making it easier to refill reusable bottles could also reduce reliance on single-use plastic, helping to cut litter and support a cleaner, more sustainable city centre.
Fiona Carden, Chief Executive of CoLab Exeter, said: “Access to drinking water affects the people we work with every day, particularly people who are homeless or sleeping rough.
“Addressing this will not only help them; it will benefit everyone who lives in, works in or visits Exeter. We look forward to working with Exeter City Council and a wide group of partners to find a sustainable community solution.”
Nicola Wheeler, Chief Executive of InExeter, said: “As the city centre’s Business Improvement District, we know that small improvements can make a real difference to how welcoming and accessible Exeter feels.
“Public drinking fountains would support residents, visitors and workers, encourage people to spend longer in the city centre and help create a positive environment for local businesses, particularly as hotter weather becomes a more regular feature of our summers.”
Phone apps can direct users to participating shops and businesses offering refills, but that model does not work for everyone.
The new initiative will consider the needs of:
- people experiencing homelessness or sleeping rough, and others without access to a smartphone
- older and vulnerable people
- disabled people, parents and carers who may face accessibility barriers
- cyclists, runners and others who need a quick refill
- people who need water at night or when participating shops are closed
- visitors and tourists
- pet owners
Partners will now work together to assess possible locations, accessibility, installation, water quality, maintenance and long-term funding.
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