Hosepipe ban implemented in Central region due to high temperatures
Water restrictions impact Bedfordshire, Berkshire, and surrounding areas
A hosepipe ban has been introduced across the Central region due to unprecedented warm and dry weather patterns affecting water supplies.
Last month marked the hottest June on record for England, with temperatures soaring to 37.7°C coupled with persistently hot, dry conditions.
This has led to a 20% increase in water demand, exceeding expectations.
Despite above-average rainfall in autumn and winter, the dry, warm spring has caused groundwater levels to decline.
Additionally, the Grafham Water reservoir, which typically supplies 10% of the Central region's water, is currently offering less than usual.
To preserve water supplies for all residents, customers are urged to minimise water use and cease hosepipe utilisation immediately.
Areas affected by this ban include Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey, and parts of London and Essex.
Restrictions prevent the use of hosepipes for activities such as watering gardens, washing cars, cleaning windows and patios, filling swimming and paddling pools, and using jet washers.
Authorities are monitoring the situation daily and will lift the ban once water levels are sustainably balanced across the network.
Residents can check updated information and details about the ban on the relevant page, which will be refreshed regularly with new developments.
The legal notice for the hosepipe ban outlines permitted and prohibited activities, and representations can be sent to [email protected] or by post to Tamblin Way, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 9EZ.
A list of frequently asked questions is available for further clarification.
Affinity Water is investing in new pipelines to prevent bursts and is enhancing leak detection and repair efforts across the area.
Through reduced hosepipe usage, residents are aiding environmental conservation and supporting those with urgent water needs.
These efforts contribute to keeping life smoothly flowing in local communities.