Essex and Suffolk Water has brought in a temporary ban on the use of hosepipes across parts of the county as suppliers respond to prolonged dry weather and a sharp rise in water demand.
Where the restrictions apply and what is banned
The measures took effect at 00:01 on 3 August and cover customers in Basildon, Southend, Tilbury, Brentwood, Hanningfield, Langford and Chelmsford. The ban prohibits use of hoses for routine domestic tasks including watering gardens, washing cars, cleaning patios or windows and filling swimming or paddling pools. It also covers ornamental fountains and routine topping up of decorative ponds.
- Permitted: watering with a bucket or watering can, drip or trickle irrigation with pressure reduction and timers in place, and limited uses for health and safety reasons.
- Prohibited: using a hose to fill swimming pools or ornamental fountains, or to carry out non-essential domestic cleaning with a hose.
- Exceptions: Blue Badge holders and those with mobility issues who cannot reasonably use alternatives, and freshly laid turf which may be watered by hose for up to 28 days after installation.
Why the ban has been introduced
The company said the step is necessary after months of low rainfall and a sequence of heatwaves that have increased consumption. Demand has risen by about 29 million litres per day — described by the firm as roughly the daily needs of another city the size of Chelmsford — putting pressure on reservoirs.
Essex and Suffolk Water reported that Hanningfield and Abberton reservoirs are at a combined average of 69% of capacity, a level well below what would normally be expected at this time of year. The supplier says the ban is designed to protect remaining supplies and to reduce the environmental harm that could follow if dry conditions persist into the autumn and winter.
Practical advice for residents and businesses
The company and regulators stress that many everyday activities can continue if carried out without a hose. Businesses that provide professional car washing services may still operate, and the ban does not apply to cleaning public service or goods vehicles. Customers are advised to:
- Use buckets or watering cans for garden and domestic watering.
- Fit or continue to use drip irrigation with appropriate controls where needed.
- Avoid non-essential outside water use and check company guidance for exemptions.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Start time | 00:01 on 3 August |
| Areas affected | Basildon, Southend, Tilbury, Brentwood, Hanningfield, Langford, Chelmsford |
| Reservoir capacity | Hanningfield & Abberton combined: 69% |
Local authorities and the water company will monitor reservoir levels and demand. Should conditions improve, the temporary restrictions can be reviewed and lifted; conversely, sustained dry weather would risk further measures. Residents concerned about the impact of the ban on health needs or certain businesses should contact Essex and Suffolk Water for clarification on exemptions and support options.
This development follows an Environment Agency declaration of drought across East Anglia and reflects the wider stress on water resources across the region.
