Sussex hosepipe ban is lifted

The temporary use ban was brought in on April 5 following two exceptionally dry years.

The introduction of restrictions, for the first time in five years, was quickly followed by downpours for the rest of April, which was the wettest on record.

The company said because the wet weather continued throughout May and into June this has helped boost water sources and keep down demand for water.

Southern Water’s four reservoirs are all more than 80 per cent full, some 35 per cent higher than they were at the start of March, and there has been some recharge of underground water supplies. Some sources are still below average for this time of year but the majority are no longer in drought status.

Water quality and strategy manager Meyrick Gough, said: “While our focus remains firmly on helping to deal with the aftermath of the torrential rain and flooding in the south over the last few days it is also right for us to lift the water restrictions.

“Our supplies have been topped up by the wet weather and are now in a much stronger position going into the summer than they were when we introduced the restrictions in early April. However, with the underground sources, which supply the vast majority of our customers, still below average for this time of year, we are asking our customers to continue with their efforts to use water wisely and not waste water.

“We have seen a great response from customers and demand has dropped considerably as a result of the wet weather and customers doing their bit and we are very grateful for their continued support.”