Water company set to bring in hosepipe ban in east of county
PARTS of Gloucestershire will be subject to a hosepipe ban later this month.
Thames Water yesterday (August 17) announced new measures in a bid to stem the use of water amid drought conditions.
The ban will come into force next Wednesday and will affect large parts of eastern Gloucestershire, including the Cirencester area.
Thames Water has stated the decision has been taken after prolonged dry conditions this year and “low rainfall forecast for the coming months”.
The water company has asked its customers to stop using hoses to water gardens, fill pools and hot tubs, or clean vehicles and windows. The ban also includes sprinklers and jet washers.
A statement from the water firm reads: “From Wednesday August 24, we’re bringing in a hosepipe ban (also known as a temporary use ban) for all customers we supply water to, even if we don’t bill you directly.
“Although the ban officially starts on August 24, the sooner we can all save more water, whether using a hosepipe or not, the better for everyone.
“After the driest July on record, and below average rainfall in ten of the last 12 months, water levels in our rivers and reservoirs are much lower than usual.
“We have more teams reducing leakage than ever before, working 24/7 to find and fix more than 1,100 leaks every week. The recent heatwaves mean that demand for water is also at record levels.
“We’ve been working around the clock to supply everyone, and customers have been brilliant at saving water where they can. But, with low rainfall forecast for the coming months, we now need to take the next step in our drought plan.
“Everything we do now will help protect supplies next summer and help the environment. We know these restrictions impact your day-to-day activities around your home and beyond, and we’re grateful for your support.”