Water Restrictions Spread Across More Counties
South East Water has expanded its hosepipe ban to cover around 2.4 million customers across southern England. The restrictions now apply to parts of Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire, in addition to areas of Kent where the ban has already been in place since 3 July.
The company announced that the new restrictions will officially begin at 12:01 am BST on Saturday. However, it has urged residents to start following the rules immediately to help protect water supplies during the ongoing dry weather.
Hot Weather and Low Rainfall Put Pressure on Water Supplies
According to South East Water, the region has faced exceptionally hot temperatures and a long period of below average rainfall. Since March, the area has received only about 55% of its usual rainfall, placing significant pressure on reservoirs and water resources.
Water levels at Arlington Reservoir in East Sussex have fallen to a point where the company’s drought plan requires temporary restrictions. Officials say these measures are necessary to protect supplies and reduce the risk of shortages if dry conditions continue.
Recent weather has made the situation worse. Parts of southern England have gone several weeks without meaningful rainfall. Wisley in Surrey, for example, recorded 31 consecutive days without rain. During the recent heatwave, temperatures also reached 37.3°C, setting a new record for the hottest June day in the UK.
What the Hosepipe Ban Means
Under the temporary restrictions, households in affected areas cannot use hosepipes for several everyday activities. These include watering gardens, washing vehicles, cleaning outdoor surfaces, filling ponds, and carrying out other non essential water use.
South East Water has thanked customers who are already saving water and apologised for the inconvenience. The company says every household can help reduce pressure on the network by limiting unnecessary water use.
Infrastructure Concerns and Public Reaction
The expanded ban has also renewed criticism of the company’s water infrastructure. Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde said the restrictions highlight years of underinvestment in improving the water network and increasing its resilience against extreme weather.
The company has faced additional financial and operational challenges in recent months. Regulators previously instructed South East Water to invest millions of pounds in infrastructure improvements. The company has also reported financial pressures following winter service disruptions.
Local Businesses Feel the Impact
The restrictions have also affected local businesses. Toby Cooper, landlord of The Bull in Tunbridge Wells, said recent water supply issues forced his pub to close on a busy Saturday evening. He estimated the closure resulted in lost sales of between £5,000 and £6,000.
Businesses across the affected region are now hoping for improved weather conditions and stable water supplies in the coming weeks.
Outlook
South East Water says the restrictions will remain in place until reservoir levels recover and water supplies improve. Officials continue to encourage customers to use water carefully while the region experiences one of its driest periods in recent years.
