Thames Water said the Temporary Use Ban is being brought in after a very dry spring, three record-breaking heatwaves and a significant increase in demand for water. According to the company, some households have been using up to 50 per cent more water than normal.
The restrictions mean customers must not use hosepipes, sprinklers or pressure washers for non-essential tasks. This includes watering gardens and lawns, filling paddling pools and hot tubs, washing vehicles with a hosepipe, and cleaning patios or driveways with jet washers.
Residents can continue using watering cans, buckets and water collected in water butts. Thames Water said people should still use water as needed to stay healthy and hydrated, while exemptions apply for certain businesses, animal welfare, health and safety requirements, and some customers with medical conditions or disabilities.
A spokesperson for Thames Water said:
“Following a very dry spring and three record breaking heatwaves, water use across our region has soared, with some homes using 50% more than usual.
“With the Met Office forecasting more hot, dry weather ahead, we’re implementing a hosepipe ban across our region, effective this Thursday 23 July. We’ve acted now to protect essential supplies so taps keep running for everyone’s core needs.”
The company said its engineers are continuing to repair leaks while urging customers to help reduce demand.
It said: “We’re working around the clock to fix leaks.”
Thames Water said it is repairing hundreds of leaks each week as part of its ongoing maintenance programme.
The announcement has been criticised by the Leader of the Labour Group on Swindon Borough Council.
Councillor Jim Robbins said:
“Whilst I get we have had a heatwave, I’m still hugely frustrated by the amount of water Thames Water waste every day and the amount of major leaks we have had to endure in Swindon, not to mention their shocking record of pumping crap into our rivers.
“I really hope Andy Burnham moves to renationalise them as soon as possible.”
Thames Water has faced ongoing criticism in recent years over leakage, sewage discharges and its financial position. The company has said it is investing billions of pounds to improve infrastructure, reduce leaks and upgrade the sewer network, while regulators continue to scrutinise its performance.
The hosepipe ban will remain in force until water supplies recover. Thames Water said the restrictions will be lifted “as soon as conditions allow”.
Customers can check whether they are affected, view the full list of restrictions and exemptions, and access water-saving advice on the Thames Water website.
