With drought declared in seven UK regions and hosepipe bans affecting over 20 million households, gardeners are seeking legal ways to keep their outdoor spaces thriving. Water companies can issue fines of up to £1,000 for breaching the ban.
Current drought and ban areas
The seven regions in drought are East Anglia, Hertfordshire and all of London, Thames Valley, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Devon and Cornwall, the West Midlands, and Wessex (Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and south Gloucestershire). Water authorities under hosepipe bans include Affinity Water, Anglian Water, Cambridge Water, Southern Water, South East Water, and Thames Water.
Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chair of the National Drought Group, said: "The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it." She added: "A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife, and the economy."
Legal watering methods
The simplest method is to use a watering can filled directly from the tap. Although it requires more effort and time, it allows you to keep your garden in good shape throughout the hot summer months.
Another option is to fit an irrigation system with a pressure-reducing valve and a timer. You could also use a hose that isn't connected to the mains supply, such as one drawing from grey water—water left over from laundry or rainwater collected in a water butt.
Collecting rainwater
Collecting rainwater is entirely acceptable. If rainfall is forecast in your area, place containers outside to catch and store it for future watering needs. Always check with your water provider which exemptions apply and understand precisely what activities are permitted.
