Weeks of hot, dry weather and record water use mean we're using more water than ever before. These restrictions will help make sure there's enough water for homes, businesses and essential services, while protecting our local rivers and the environment.

The restrictions will be enforced from 1.01am on Saturday 11 July 2026. However, to help protect water supplies and the environment, we're asking customers to start following the restrictions immediately.

What does this actually mean?

During the temporary use ban, you must not use a hosepipe for things like:

• Watering your garden
• Watering plants
• Washing your car
• Cleaning patios and driveways
• Cleaning walls and windows
• Filling paddling pools, swimming pools or hot tubs
• Filling ponds and ornamental fountains
• Cleaning private leisure boats

The restrictions also apply to sprinklers and pressure washers connected to the mains water supply. We know this may be really disappointing, especially during the ongoing hot weather.

You can continue to water gardens and grow fruit and vegetables using a watering can, bucket, water from a water butt or a drip or trickle irrigation system if:

• it is fitted with a timer
• it is fitted with a pressure reducing valve
• it is not handheld
• it delivers water directly to the soil or plant roots

Sprinklers, misters, spray irrigation systems and other irrigation equipment that disperses water into the air are not to be used.

Visit the Anglian Water website for more information