Published 13 hours ago • loading... • Updated 1 hour ago

Wessex Water Introduces First Hosepipe Ban in 50 Years

On Monday, August 17, Wessex Water announced a temporary hosepipe ban starting midnight Tuesday for 1.4 million customers across Bath, Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire, marking the company's first restriction in 50 years.
Chief Executive Ruth Jefferson attributed the decision to record-high water demand, with usage consistently exceeding 400 million litres daily—30% above average—as persistent hot, dry weather strained the network for more than 40 days.
The ban prohibits hosepipes for non-essential activities including watering gardens, filling swimming pools, and cleaning windows. Wessex Water invested £230 million in supply grid improvements since 2010, yet this remains the first restriction since the 1976 drought.
More than 27 million people across England are now subject to hosepipe restrictions. Although Thames Water has issued multiple bans in recent years, Wessex Water's decision marks a historic first for the utility.
Fresher, more changeable conditions are expected this week, with rain and thunderstorms possible in some areas. A yellow heat-health alert remains in effect for the South West, South East, and London until 9 am on Tuesday, August 18.

Insights by Ground AI

27 Articles

Wessex Water Hits 1.4 Million Customers With First Historic Hosepipe Ban Since 1976 as Drought Worsens

Wessex Water's first hosepipe ban since 1976 takes effect at 00:01 on Tuesday, 18 August. The restriction applies to 1.4 million customers across Bath, Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire. The company blamed prolonged dry weather and record demand across its network. Wessex Water said essential supplies remain secure despite the pressure. What Wessex Water's Ban Means for 1.4 Million Customers Chief executive Ruth Jefferson said the company had not t…

1 hour ago·United Kingdom

Read Full Article