The south east and other parts of the UK depend heavily on regular rainfall to sustain their reservoirs and groundwater
Millions of people are facing hosepipe and sprinkler restrictions amid dwindling water supplies in the UK. Southern Water, Thames Water, South East Water, and Yorkshire Water are among the companies that have enforced such restrictions, stopping hose use for activities such as filling paddling pools and watering plants.
Now, many Southern Water customers are receiving a crucial letter that explains the rules enforced while suggesting other ‘small changes’ that could make a ‘big difference’. The advice is particularly relevant to residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, where bans are currently in place.
The Southern Water leaflet summarises three key points: “Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. Keep showers to 4 minutes when you can. Use the eco mode setting on your dishwasher.”
The south east and other parts of the UK depend heavily on regular rainfall to sustain their reservoirs and groundwater. With the Solent and South Downs region now classified as experiencing ‘prolonged dry weather,’ its water system is under strain, particularly given the high population density in the area.
Guidance on Southern Water’s website also explains: “In addition, the UK’s population density puts extra pressure on water supplies in certain regions, especially the south east, where it’s generally drier than the rest of the county.
“With extended periods of warm, dry weather becoming increasingly common, we’re investing in new water sources, like water recycling plants and new reservoirs, like the one at Havant Thicket, to address the shortage.”
READ MORE: ‘I’m a doctor, reduce bloating with this free and easy tip’READ MORE: All mobile phone users issued key warning over ‘strange’ apps
Like many other water firms, Southern Water doesn’t know when the ban will be lifted, but said customers would be informed when it occurs. In its Hampshire postal information leaflet, the company added that it is doing everything possible to protect water supplies this summer.
“In the last 12 months, we’ve repaired over 7,000 leaks in Hampshire, saving millions of litres of water – and we’re planning to match that again this year,” it reads. “In fact, we’ve reduced leakage by 20% and are now fixing more leaks, faster than ever before – using everything from smart tech and drones to dogs specifically trained to detect leaks in rural areas.”
Although Southern Water customers in West Sussex, East Sussex, and Kent are not currently subjected to hosepipe restrictions, they are still urged to ‘use water wisely’. The firm also stressed that people on its ‘Priority Services Register with medical or mobility needs, including Blue Badge holders and those on our WaterSure tariff, are exempt’.
However, its online advice added: “Anything you can do to reduce or avoid hosepipe use would be greatly appreciated.” Anyone not exempt and caught violating a hosepipe ban could face a fine of up to £1,000 under the Water Industry Act.
READ MORE: Mariah Carey says ageing ‘just doesn’t happen’ to her in candid admissionREAD MORE: ‘I bought a seaside flat in a holiday hotspot – it’s cheaper than renting’
What does a ban mean?
During a ban, Southern Water highlights that you generally must not use a hosepipe for:
- Gardening (including a sprinkler system)
- Washing cars
- Cleaning windows or patios
- Filling swimming pools, hot tubs, or paddling pools
For more information on the Southern Water hosepipe ban, visit its website here. To learn about other enforced hosepipe bans, check the websites of South East Water, Yorkshire Water, or Thames Water.
Have you got a story to share? Get in touch at [email protected]