As England grapples with a persistent drought, three water companies are proposing strict restrictions on businesses to alleviate pressure on water supplies. Golf clubs, private schools, and commercial car washes may face bans on non-essential water use as rivers and wildlife continue to suffer.
Current Drought Situation
Eleven areas of England remain in drought, with rivers experiencing low flows and groundwater levels declining. Reservoir levels are currently at 54%, which is 21% below the expected levels for autumn. On October 9, Yorkshire was the latest area to be declared in drought status. Meanwhile, parts of Wales are showing early signs of drought recovery after the entire country was declared in drought in July.
Reservoir Conditions
- Nineteen reservoirs or reservoir groups in England and Wales are less than 50% full.
- Eight reservoirs are exceptionally low, an increase from five in August.
- The Met Office indicates that above-average rainfall is necessary over a sustained period to alleviate drought conditions.
Last month, England received only 65% of its typical September rainfall, with the eastern and southern regions facing the most significant deficits.
Proposed Restrictions
Despite the ongoing drought, businesses in affected areas have been exempt from the hosepipe restrictions imposed on the public for the past three months. However, South East Water, Southern Water, and South West Water are seeking to extend these restrictions to businesses through non-essential use bans. If approved, these bans could restrict:
- Golf clubs from using mains water for irrigation.
- Private schools from watering playing fields.
- Commercial car washes from operating, as power hoses can consume up to 25 litres of water per minute.
