Hosepipe ban announced for 850,000 Kent residents as demand surges

South East Water has confirmed that a hosepipe ban will come into force for around 850,000 customers across Kent, following what the company describes as “high temperatures and record demand for water”.

In a statement, the supplier said that despite efforts to keep supplies stable, pressure on the network has continued to rise, leaving no choice but to curb non‑essential use.“We’re asking everyone across the county to please follow these restrictions straight away, to help us protect local water supplies,” the company said.The temporary use ban will be legally enforceable from 00:01 BST on 3 July.

Under the rules, residents must not use hosepipes for:

Watering gardens

Washing cars, patios or boats

Filling swimming or paddling pools

Earlier this week, South East Water had already urged customers to limit usage to essential needs only. The company says the new restrictions are necessary to ensure supplies remain available during the ongoing hot weather.