Hosepipe Ban Introduced as Record Water Demand Strains Supplies in Kent and Sussex

A record-breaking surge in water demand has forced South East Water to impose a hosepipe and sprinkler ban across Kent and Sussex, affecting more than 1.4 million customers. The urgent measure follows an unprecedented dry spell—the driest spring since 1893—and a forecast predicting the third heatwave of the summer. According to the Met Office, dry […]

A record-breaking surge in water demand has forced South East Water to impose a hosepipe and sprinkler ban across Kent and Sussex, affecting more than 1.4 million customers. The urgent measure follows an unprecedented dry spell—the driest spring since 1893—and a forecast predicting the third heatwave of the summer.

According to the Met Office, dry conditions are expected to continue throughout the season, putting further strain on water resources. South East Water, which supplies drinking water to large parts of the South East, confirmed that its raw water storage—initially healthy at the start of the year—has dropped significantly since May due to extraordinary levels of consumption.

On 30 June alone, demand surged to 680 million litres, exceeding summer averages by 105 million litres—enough to supply four additional towns the size of Maidstone or Eastbourne. The company has now exceeded drought plan thresholds and warns that ongoing consumption at current levels could begin to severely harm the environment.

David Hinton, Chief Executive Officer of South East Water, said: “Providing the public water supply during this prolonged period of hot and dry weather continues to be challenging. We’ve largely met demand so far thanks to careful network balancing and deploying our new tanker fleet. But the situation is now critical.”

Despite ongoing public appeals for responsible water use, the high levels of demand have left the company with no alternative but to introduce temporary use restrictions. These include a ban on using hosepipes to water gardens, clean vehicles and windows, or fill swimming and paddling pools.

“We are very aware that climate change and other factors are increasing the frequency of these events,” Mr Hinton added. “Hosepipe restrictions are an integral part of drought planning in the UK. This decision ensures we can maintain essential supply for all customers, including the most vulnerable, and minimise environmental damage.”

South East Water is also tackling leaks, having repaired more than 18,000 network faults and 6,000 customer-side leaks in the past year—an increase of over 12% from the previous year. The company continues to monitor water use across Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire and may extend restrictions if demand remains high.

Support is available for those with medical needs or additional support requirements through the company’s Priority Services Register.

As the region braces for yet another heatwave, South East Water urges everyone to conserve water wherever possible—emphasising that every drop saved today helps protect tomorrow’s supply.