Remaining hosepipe bans finally lifted

There has been pressure on the companies to lift the bans before now in the face of such wet weather, however, it is only now, after the sustained period of heavy rain that aquifers have been sufficiently recharged. South East Water asset director Paul Seeley explained: “Normally, only winter rainfall recharges the aquifers and so this recharge is unusual, and has seen some of the highest increases in water levels ever recorded in our area at this time of year.”

For example, one measurement point, at Duckpit Farm near Canterbury, saw levels rise by 4.95m between April and June.

However, South East Water is urging customers to remain careful with the amount of water they use, as levels are still lower than the company would like: “We are now confident that our water resources have returned to a position that means our customers’ essential needs are secure,” said Mr Seeley. “However, the levels are still lower than we would like them to be, so we are planning for a possible third dry winter and we will continue to seek our customers’ support to use water wisely.”

The ban, originally brought into force by seven water companies on April 5, has now been lifted by all of them as Thames, Anglian and Southern lifted bans in their areas on June 14.

edie staff

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