Hosepipe ban comes in for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight
If you break the ban, you could be hit with a fine of up to £1000
A hosepipe ban is now in force for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
It means if you use one to water your garden, fill up a paddling pool, clean your car or wash your windows - you could be hit with a fine of up to a thousand pounds.
On its website, Southern Water explains why it has brought the ban in:
“The warmest spring on record, followed by a record-breaking heatwave, has left river levels 25% lower than expected for this time of year. The River Test has lost a third of its water within the last month, putting pressure on our ability to treat and supply your water. To protect local rivers, including the River Test and Itchen that supply most of your water, and to keep taps flowing we need to introduce restrictions.”
Southern Water’s website also explains what will happen if you don’t follow the ban:
“We’re asking our customers to help us by following the hosepipe ban and hope that they will. We aim to communicate first, providing information about why it’s important not to use a hosepipe during restrictions, but enforcement may follow for repeated or serious breaches.
“Water companies can ask customers to follow a hosepipe ban under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. The Act gives us powers to fine customers up to £1,000 if they ignore it. We hope it doesn’t come to that, and everyone will play their part to protect our rivers.”