18/01/2007

Water companies lift hosepipe bans

Several water companies have eased restrictions on water usage by lifting hosepipe bans today.

Thames Water, Southern Water, Three Valleys Water and Sutton and East Surrey Water have announced the end of restrictions this morning.

However, customers of South East Water and Mid Kent Water remain subject to hosepipe bans.

Dame Yve Buckland, Chair of the Consumer Council for Water, said: "Consumers, who helped water companies by reducing consumption during the hot dry spell last summer, will be relieved that restrictions have been lifted before the planting and growing season starts in the garden. However, it's still important that we use water wisely.

"Consumers are prepared to do their bit, both by avoiding wastage and by considering water-efficient devices and simple measures such as save-a-flush bags. At the same time, water companies are sharpening up their act, and all involved in the water industry are working on better storage, saving and managing water supplies. We've all learned the lessons of the past nine months."

The Consumer Council for Water said that while companies are developing new water resources, the must also look at better local sharing of water supplies across company borders.

(SP/EF)

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