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Does the hosepipe ban affect me?




Southern Water has become the latest company to issue a hosepipe ban, writes Bethany Sirianni.

Households across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being asked to ditch their hosepipes immediately, although the ban will be legally enforceable from 9am on Monday (July 21).

The water company is asking households to immediately support the action to avoid a ‘spike’ in demand.

The ban includes postcodes RG20, RG26 and RG19 and it follows the driest spring in more than 100 years and the warmest June on record.

In these areas water is mostly supplied by the Test and Itchen chalk streams, which are at critically low levels, down 24 per cent compared to the average flow at this time of year.

With the Environment Agency declaring the area in a period of ‘prolonged dry weather’ Southern Water said action must be taken to protect the rivers and ensure there is enough water for necessary use.

The ban will prevent hosepipes being used to water gardens, fill paddling pools and wash cars.

A hosepipe ban is coming into effect next week, but people are being urged to reduce their water usage immediately.
A hosepipe ban is coming into effect next week, but people are being urged to reduce their water usage immediately.

Southern Water managing director Tim McMahon said: “We’re sorry we’re taking this step, but as other water companies have already done, we have to respond to the widespread and prolonged dry weather affecting our region.

“Our teams are working 24/7 to find and fix leaks faster than ever, using a wide range of innovative solutions like drones, sensors and even sniffer dogs, and are ensuring that our pipes, reservoirs and water supply works are working as efficiently as possible – but sadly this is not enough.

“We really need your help too so we can reduce use, and setting aside hosepipes can make a huge difference.

“Only by working together can we make sure there’s enough water to go around for customers and the environment. Thank you for your support.”

A hosepipe uses 1,000 litres of water an hour, the same as one person’s weekly water consumption.

There are exemptions to the ban, including for Priority Services Register and WaterSure customers with mobility or health needs, such as Blue Badge holders.



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