Following months of unprecedented hot and dry weather, a hosepipe ban is being introduced across the Wessex Water region as demand for water reaches exceptionally high levels.
Demand is currently around 30% higher than average, while reservoir, river and groundwater levels continue to be affected by the prolonged lack of rainfall. With further hot weather expected and no significant rain forecast in the coming weeks, Wessex Water has made the difficult decision to introduce water restrictions.
The hosepipe ban, also known as a Temporary Use Ban (TUB), will come into effect from 00:01 on Tuesday 18 August. It is the first time in 50 years that water restrictions have been introduced across the Wessex Water region.
The restrictions mean customers must not use a hosepipe for a range of non-essential activities. These include watering gardens, lawns, flowers and plants; filling or maintaining paddling pools and swimming pools; washing private vehicles; cleaning patios, paths, driveways, walls, windows and other outdoor surfaces; and filling ornamental ponds or fountains.
There are some exemptions. Customers may be exempt where they are unable to make reasonable adjustments because of a health condition or disability. The restrictions also allow hosepipe use for certain health and safety requirements, animal welfare needs, and some business services and activities. Customers should check the full list of exemptions to understand whether an activity is permitted.
At present, there is no confirmed date for when the restrictions will end. Wessex Water will continue to closely monitor reservoir levels, river flows, groundwater levels and customer demand. The ban will be lifted as soon as conditions allow, with customers informed when this happens.
Wessex Water acknowledges that the restrictions may be frustrating and could have an impact on customers, particularly after such a long period of dry weather. However, the measures are necessary to protect water resources and the wider environment.
Customers are encouraged to continue using water wisely throughout the summer and to support efforts to conserve supplies. Further information, including the complete list of restrictions, exemptions, frequently asked questions and the latest updates, is available on the Wessex Water website.
Customers who need assistance can also contact Wessex Water or report a problem online.
