Affinity Water has implemented a hosepipe ban across parts of north and west London, affecting households in dozens of postcode areas. The 'temporary use' ban prohibits using hosepipes for watering gardens, washing cars, patios, paths, driveways, cleaning windows, and filling swimming or paddling pools. The ban will remain in force until water resources recover and demand returns to sustainable levels.
Reason for the ban
Last month was the warmest June on record for England, with temperatures reaching 37.7°C, followed by a continuous pattern of hot, dry weather. Affinity Water states that demand for water is up 20% on average, and the company is receiving less water than usual from Grafham Water reservoir, which normally provides around 10% of the region's supply. Without action, demand could exceed what its licence allows, straining local water sources and increasing disruption risk.
Full list of affected postcodes
The ban covers postcodes including: CB9, CB10, CB11, CB21, CM1, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, CM7, CM14, CM15, CM16, CM17, CM18, CM19, CM20, CM21, CM22, CM23, CM24, CM77, RM4, IG7, IG10, EN9, EN10, EN11, AL1 to AL10, HP1 to HP10, HP14, HP15, HP16, HP23, HP27, LU1 to LU7, WD3 to WD7, WD17 to WD19, WD23 to WD25, SG1 to SG14, SG16, SG18, GU1 to GU5, GU15, GU16, GU18 to GU25, KT8, KT10 to KT16, KT24, RG12, RG42, RG45, SL4, TW4 to TW6, TW13 to TW20, NW2 to NW4, NW7, NW9 to NW11, N2, N3, N6, N10 to N12, N14, N20, EN2, EN4 to EN7, HA0 to HA9, SL0, SL2, SL3, SL9, UB1 to UB11, W7, and W13.
Exemptions and customer support
Customers registered on the Priority Services Register, those receiving support through the WaterSure tariff, and Blue Badge holders are exempt from the restrictions. Affinity Water apologised for the inconvenience and thanked customers for their support.
Company statement
Stephen Plumb of Affinity Water said: 'We don't take a decision like this lightly, but with demand for water remaining at exceptionally high levels, we need to bring forward the Temporary Use Ban to help protect water supplies for our customers, especially those who are most vulnerable, for the communities we serve, and for the environment.' He added: 'This weekend is critical. Every litre of water saved will help reduce pressure on our network, so we're asking everyone to avoid unnecessary water use and put their hosepipe away now.'
Further information
Affinity Water will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates. Customers can find full details, including a map and FAQs, at affinitywater.co.uk/hosepipeban.
