Hosepipe Ban Lifted Across Parts Of Sussex After Wet January Boosts Water Supplies

The hosepipe ban affecting parts of Sussex has been lifted following one of the wettest Januarys on record, easing pressure on local water supplies.

South East Water introduced the temporary use ban last July for customers in Sussex and Kent after what was confirmed as the driest spring since 1893.

The restrictions were brought in as reservoirs and water sources came under increasing strain during a prolonged period of hot and dry weather.

The water company has now confirmed that Ardingly Reservoir in West Sussex is back to full capacity, after levels fell to below a quarter full in October.

Nick Price, Head of Water Resources at South East Water, said the past year had placed significant pressure on supplies.

“Despite the recent wet weather, last year England experienced the driest spring since 1893 and the hottest summer on record, with four separate heatwaves,” he said.

“Our water resources felt the impact of this.”

He also thanked Sussex customers for helping reduce demand during the restrictions.

“I’d like to thank everyone for following the restrictions and finding ways to cut down on their water use,” he added.

As water levels improved, the Environment Agency last month moved the area out of official drought status and into recovery.

A drought had been declared in October as conditions worsened across parts of the South East.

While the ban has now been lifted, South East Water is urging residents to continue using water responsibly as the region moves into spring and summer.

“Looking ahead, we do need people to remain mindful about how much water they use,” Mr Price said.

“This will help protect our water resources and ensure we can meet demand in the warmer months ahead.”