What the hosepipe ban means for Kent
Getty ImagesA hosepipe ban is to be put in place by South East Water (SEW) for its customers in Kent.
Although it officially comes into force on 3 July, the company is urging its 850,000 customers in the county to adhere to it "immediately".
The ban is in response to high temperatures and record demand for water across Kent, the company says.
The decision has frustrated many residents with one labelling the ban "despicable".
What is allowed under the hosepipe ban?
Some of the things customers have been told to avoid include:
- Watering a garden or plants using a hosepipe
- Cleaning a private vehicle
- Filling pools, ponds and fountains
- Cleaning walls, windows, paths and patios
South East WaterBusinesses that use hosepipes as a core part of its commercial operations do not have to adhere to the ban, SEW says.
The company gave the examples of car washes and window cleaners.
However, all other businesses that do not rely on hosepipes will need to comply with restrictions.
Is there hosepipe ban in my area?
SEW says its temporary hosepipe ban applies to all customers across its Kent supply area.
It is not being implemented in Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire or Surrey.
But the company says it is monitoring the situation "closely" in those areas.
How is the hosepipe ban enforced?
Water companies are allowed to prohibit uses of water during times of serious water shortage under the Water Industry Act, and this includes the use of hosepipes.
South East Water said contravening the ban was a convictable offence, which could lead to fines of up to £1,000.
"Prosecution is very much a last resort and something no company wants to have to do," the company said on its website.
When will the hosepipe ban end?
SEW says it is keeping its hosepipe ban in Kent "under constant review".
"It is likely that it will continue until we are confident that the demand for water has reduced back to manageable levels," the company added.
"This really is just a temporary measure to help us in these very unusual circumstances."
What has SEW said about the hosepipe ban?
South East Water's chief executive David Hinton said the heatwave meant drinking water was being taken from its storage tanks faster than it could be treated and refilled.
"To make sure we can maintain a consistent public water service and protect essential supplies for hygiene, drinking and cooking for everyone, especially our vulnerable customers, we must reduce overall demand," it added.
Hinton, who resigned in May following supply issues but remained in the post to allow for an "orderly transition", said he recognised customers' frustrations due to the ban.
"We are deeply sorry for the disruption this causes, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone helping us protect Kent's water."