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UK Faces First Hosepipe Ban in 3 Decades
10 Jul
Summary
- Cambridge Water imposed a ban for the first time in 30 years.
- Record temperatures and increased water use led to the ban.
- Restrictions apply to gardens, pools, and car washing.
Cambridge Water has implemented a temporary hosepipe ban, the first in the region in over 30 years, impacting around 350,000 customers. This action is a direct response to the ongoing heatwave and a 30% surge in water demand. The company noted that on hot days, water demand exceeds its treatment and distribution capacity.
This ban, effective from July 17, prohibits non-essential water use such as watering gardens, filling swimming pools, and washing cars. It aims to preserve local water resources and protect internationally significant chalk streams. The region has experienced below-average rainfall since March, with record temperatures recorded in recent months.
This is the first hosepipe ban introduced by Cambridge Water since the 1995 drought. The company is drawing down on underground reserves faster than usual, anticipating several more months of potentially hot and dry weather. Other water companies, including South East Water and Southern Water, have also introduced similar restrictions in their service areas.
