Seven water companies have introduced or announced hosepipe bans as prolonged dry weather and July heatwaves have sharply increased demand for water. The restrictions are intended to protect treatment works and storage so that essential household supplies can continue, with Thames Water’s ban affecting 10.1 million customers.

The ban prohibits using hoses and sprinklers for gardens, cars, windows, allotments and pools, although exemptions cover health, animal welfare, food crops and some disabled customers. Businesses may use hoses where necessary for commercial activity, but parks and public green spaces face limits; no end date has been set, and companies say the measures will remain until water resources recover. Demand has risen by up to 30% on the hottest July days, while campaigners highlight substantial water losses from leaks.