Affinity Water set to impose hosepipe ban next week after record temperatures
People in Bedfordshire will be banned from using their hosepipes as Affinity Water announces its temporary ban will come into force next week.
The hosepipe ban will come into effect from Friday, July 17, and means that people can’t use their hosepipes to water their gardens, wash windows, cars or patios, or fill paddling pools.
The water company has put this in place across its Central area – which covers parts of Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Surrey and parts of London.
It comes after the warmest June on record for England, when temperatures reached 37.7 degrees in some areas.
Since then, the region has had more hot, dry weather and demand for water has risen by 20 per cent, putting a strain on resources.
The Environment Agency allows Affinity Water to take a certain amount of water each year from its sources, like rivers and reservoirs.
The company says that without action, it is at risk of losing its licence if it exceeds the limit, meaning more disruption for customers.
People registered on the Priority Services Register, those who get support through the WaterSure tariff and Blue Badge holders, are exempt and can use their water as usual.
Stephen Plumb, asset strategy and capital delivery director at Affinity Water, said: "We don't take a decision like this lightly, but with demand for water use at unprecedented levels, we need to act now to protect supplies, for our customers, especially those who are most vulnerable, for the communities we serve, and for the environment.
“We know a hosepipe ban is disruptive, and we apologise for the inconvenience this will cause. We would like to thank customers for their support so far this summer and for working with us to help protect our water supply.”
The ban will be in place until water resources have recovered, with Affinity Water regularly checking levels.
Anglian Water has already put a ban in place – with will be enforceable from tomorrow (Saturday).
Stephen added: “Every bit of water saved makes a difference.”
Customers will be told when they can start using their water as normal again.