United Utilities has confirmed there are 'no plans' to introduce a hosepipe ban across Greater Manchester and the North West, even as several suppliers enforce restrictions in southern and central England. The company stated that reservoir levels in the region are 'above average' for this time of year, alleviating immediate concerns over water shortages.
Five water suppliers—Affinity Water, Anglian Water, South East Water, Southern Water, and Cambridge Water—have imposed hosepipe bans across parts of southern and central England. These measures come after forecasters noted that central and south-east England experienced the longest unbroken spell of no recorded rainfall this century. However, the Environment Agency reports that no parts of the UK are currently in a drought, though some areas have reached 'prolonged dry weather' status.
Reservoir Levels Remain Healthy
As of July 12, reservoir levels in the North West averaged 74%, up from 63.2% last year, according to United Utilities. A wet start to the year helped maintain these levels before the dry spell. June saw the North West's highest monthly rainfall since February, with levels classed as 'above normal' by the Environment Agency, alongside south-east and south-west England.
In contrast, east and central England recorded their fourth consecutive month of below-average rainfall in June. These regions are most affected by hosepipe bans, with Anglian Water, Cambridge Water, and Affinity Water imposing restrictions.
No Immediate Plans for Restrictions
A United Utilities spokesperson told the M.E.N: 'There are no plans for any restrictions in the North West and our reservoir levels are above average for this time of year.' The company added that a wet start to the year allowed reservoir levels to remain in a good position before the dry weather hit. Despite the assurance, the spokesperson encouraged customers to 'use water wisely' regardless of the weather.
The Environment Agency's latest data indicates that while some areas are under prolonged dry weather status, no drought has been declared in the UK. This contrasts with the hosepipe bans already in place, which primarily affect southern and central England.
