Hosepipe ban lifted as river levels rise after recent rain
The restriction has been in place in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight for three months
Last updated 4th Nov 2022
A hosepipe ban in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight has been lifted.
Southern Water introduced the restriction on 5 August because of low levels in the River Test and River Itchen, where it extracts water.
It was the first time the company had issued a hosepipe ban since 2012, following one of the driest summers on record.
Southern Water said river flows had started to increase to levels where restrictions are no longer necessary.
Katy Taylor, Southern Water’s chief customer officer, said: "While we are now in a position to lift the ban, we continue to experience the effects of drought across our region, with river and reservoir levels not back to where they really should be at this time of year.
"This is why we continue to encourage everyone to play their part in using water wisely through the coming months.
"In the face of climate change and population growth, a dry winter could put us at risk of drought and restrictions again next year, so we must do what we can to protect and preserve this precious resource."