Thames Water Implements Hosepipe Ban for 10.1 Million

Thames Water has introduced a temporary usage ban affecting 10.1 million customers across its supply area. This measure comes in response to increased demand for public water supplies, which has risen by up to 30% on the hottest days this July, exacerbated by prolonged dry weather. Seven water companies have now implemented or announced future hosepipe restrictions to alleviate pressure on treatment works and storage facilities during peak periods.

Scope of Restrictions and Exemptions

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The restrictions mean that hosepipes cannot be used for a range of activities including watering gardens, washing cars, filling paddling or swimming pools, and cleaning windows. Sprinkler systems are also included in the ban. However, several exemptions are in place. These include needs related to health and safety, animal welfare (covering pets, livestock, and fish), watering food crops, and tending to certain newly planted trees. Customers with severe mobility issues, disabilities, or medical conditions that prevent them from adjusting their water use are also exempt, as are Blue Badge holders and wastewater-only customers.

For businesses, public sector organisations, and charities, hosepipe use is permitted where directly necessary for commercial activities, such as professional cleaning services. While hoses and sprinklers are prohibited in parks and public gardens, exceptions exist for health and safety requirements and National Plant Collections. Kew Gardens, for instance, is exempt but already employs measures to minimise water usage.

Duration and Enforcement

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No definitive end date has been set for the ban. Water companies have stated it will remain in effect until water resources recover sufficiently and demand returns to sustainable levels. Customers are urged to be mindful of their water consumption. Thames Water has indicated that repeated non-compliance may lead to contact from the company and potential further action. The public is advised not to report hosepipe usage by calling 999.

Concerns Over Water Leakage

Greenpeace UK has raised concerns, stating that water firms in England and Wales collectively waste approximately five times more water through leaky pipes than a nationwide hosepipe ban could conserve. Thames Water reported that leaks have decreased by 15.1% compared to the 2019/20 baseline, and their teams are working continuously to fix leaks and manage water distribution. The company stated that restrictions will be lifted as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.