Drought Order Comes Into Force Across Parts of Sussex

A drought order has been declared in parts of Sussex, affecting areas around Haywards Heath and Eastbourne.

Ardingly Reservoir, which supplies water to 228,000 local customers, is currently at 27.6% of its total capacity.

The drought order, effective from today (Friday), is designed to conserve remaining water and protect drinking water supplies in the region.

Some exemptions from the existing hosepipe ban will also be withdrawn.

From Friday, residents are no longer allowed to use hosepipes or sprinklers to water:

• Newly laid lawns at domestic properties

• Trees and hedges planted within the last three years

• Food crops at domestic premises or private allotments

The existing hosepipe ban, first imposed in July, remains in effect until water supply levels are secured, the Environment Agency said.

Although Eastbourne’s water comes from Arlington Reservoir, the area is included in the drought order.

Sussex joins other parts of the country that entered drought status earlier this year, including Yorkshire, Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire, the East Midlands, and the West Midlands.

The National Drought Group, which brings together water companies, regulators, farmers, anglers, and conservation experts, continues to monitor the situation and will meet next on 30 October.