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A temporary hosepipe ban was put in place amid an 'unprecedented demand' of water being used

Cambridge Water has provided an update on its first hosepipe ban in around 30 years. On July 8, the water company issued a temporary hosepipe ban across the Cambridge area, as a result of an “unprecedented” demand of water being used.

The restrictions were introduced across the Cambridge Water supply region after it experienced one of the driest springs in recent years. Following the introduction on July 8, the ban was officially made legally enforceable from 1am on Friday, July 17.

This means an individual could be fined up to £1,000 if they break the ban. Since the ban was put in place, the community has been praised for its support towards it.

Elena Karpathakis, managing director of Cambridge Water said: “We are really proud to serve the communities in Cambridge, and have been blown away by their positive support since the Temporary Use Ban was introduced. Daily demand is starting to move in the right direction, and that is a brilliant start, but we need everyone to keep going.

"The restrictions are now legally enforceable, but our priority remains helping customers understand what they can and cannot do, and supporting them to use water wisely. Thousands of customers are already doing the right thing, and every litre saved helps protect supplies for homes, businesses and the environment.

"We know how important reliable water supplies are to the communities we serve, and we do not take these restrictions lightly. The continued hot, dry weather has placed real pressure on water resources, including the local groundwater sources and chalk streams that are such an important part of our environment.

“Thank you again to everyone who is making changes to reduce non-essential water use. By working together, we can make a significant difference. Whilst temperatures have reduced a little, there has still been a lack of significant rain which means the local rivers and waterways remain under significant pressure, and we must continue to protect them."

The restrictions mean customers must not use a hosepipe for non-essential tasks such as watering gardens, washing vehicles or cleaning patios or windows. Customers can still do these activities using a bucket or watering can, or by using water that is not from the mains supply, such as rainwater from a water butt.