Hampshire and the Isle of Wight face hosepipe restrictions
People living in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will not be allowed to use a hosepipe from Monday (21 July) after Southern Water announced restrictions for the communities it supplies.
The restrictions are being introduced to combat the pressure on water resources and the local environment caused by the driest spring in more than a century.
The hosepipe ban only affects Southern Water customers in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, where the Test and Itchen chalk streams supply most of people’s water. These internationally-renowned streams have reached critically low levels so action is needed to protect them.
People will no longer be allowed to use hosepipes for activities like watering gardens, filling paddling pools or washing cars.
Responding to the restrictions, Michael Barnes, Policy Manager at CCW, said:
The twin pressures of prolonged dry weather and high water demand have left Southern Water with no choice but to introduce hosepipe restrictions in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. We know this will inconvenience some customers, but we also know people care deeply about the environment. These measures are essential to safeguard vital water supplies and protect the region’s precious chalk streams.
Customers expect Southern Water to lead by example and redouble its efforts to reduce leakage and supply interruptions. Showing this commitment will help build trust and keep people motivated to play their part in saving water too.
We urge all customers – not just those currently affected by restrictions – to always use water wisely. Small changes to our everyday water use, such as taking shorter showers and turning the taps off while brushing our teeth, can make a big difference with very little effort.
Visit our Drought Hub for more information on the impact of drought and how we can all play a part in protecting the environment and water for essential supplies.