Car washes, private swimming pools, gyms, sports pitches and other non-essential water uses could face new restrictions as the UK's drought conditions worsen, with no rain in sight. The government is preparing a range of scenarios to maintain water supplies, according to a spokesperson.
Government prepares for further bans
Just days ago, the government issued a temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues, citing a 'significant risk to the public'. The single-use grills 'have been the cause of a number of serious wildfires across the country over the summer months', according to advice published online by the government.
Now, non-essential use bans could become common among businesses. Car washes, gyms, sports pitches, private pools and more could soon face limits on the amount of water each can use.
Official response and emergency support
A government spokesperson said: 'As any responsible government would, we are preparing for a range of scenarios and working with the National Drought Group to help maintain water supplies.'
'We expect water companies to follow their established drought management plans and go further and faster to reduce leaks. We are clear that the water sector is not working for bill payers. That is why we are driving long-term change, including requiring companies to deliver record investment in infrastructure and changing the planning system to enable the construction of nine new reservoirs.'
A further 'emergency financial support' package is being drawn up for fire services battling the summer wildfires. Already this year, England and Wales have experienced as many wildfires as the whole of 2025.
Drought declared across most of England and Wales
Referring to Britain as a 'tinderbox' right now, Andy Burnham admitted that the country has to 'face up' to the 'changing climate' and must transition to 'more clean energy'.
As it stands, almost three-quarters of England and all of Wales have been officially declared in drought, which has enabled conditions for fire to spread. The PM has been implored by MPs to confront the 'desperately worrying' strain on the UK's water resources and agree to speed up the rate at which new reservoirs are built.
