Anglian Water has said it cannot rule out a hosepipe ban this summer as Cambridgeshire faces another heatwave, but readers say fixing leaks should come first
The prospect of yet another heatwave has prompted Anglian Water to revisit its stance on whether to implement a hosepipe ban across the Eastern region. In June, the water authority released a statement confirming it had “no plans to introduce a hosepipe ban this year.”
However, the latest meteorological forecasts — which indicate another prolonged period of exceptionally hot weather this July — have compelled Anglian Water to reconsider its position.
Ian Rule, Anglian Water’s Director of Water Services said: “Although we’re not putting hosepipe bans in place at the moment, the situation is changing very quickly and we can’t completely rule them out for this summer.”
The forthcoming hot weather will mark the third heatwave experienced this year. Anglian Water suggested heatwaves could become the ‘new normal’ as the climate crisis deepens.
Mr Rule added: “Right now, we’re facing another hot spell, and we know we’re likely to see more of this weather this summer – not to mention the years to come.”
Several readers argued that leaks should be addressed first. Banallbikes writes: “They should repair all the leaks and we wouldn’t be short of water.”
Whynot2 comments: “As a lot of people are now on a meter, they pay for what they use, so why would they want to waste it?”
Welshknight thinks: “Nationalise it and scrap the bonuses and implement a pay restraint of 80k/annum. Sort them out.”
While over on our Facebook page, Wendy C comments: “If they actually got their act together and repaired the water leaks which I’ve seen several of, and 2 near to where I live, then perhaps that might just help save water.”
Mark D says: “What after how much water has gone up, you must be joking, build more reservoirs with the profits.”
Clare D mentions: “The water that comes out of our taps is grey water anyway, it’s full of chemicals and other nasties. Why are they not sourcing water from underground springs rather than giving us recycled water?”
Darren S asks: “Why are the car washers still using tens of thousands of gallons of fresh water to wash dusty cars every day if there are shortages.”
Claire P writes: “Maybe they need to start planning for the future. When was the last reservoir built? Didn’t we have a wet match? How much do the shareholders get when we have so many leaks?”
Georgina C feels: “Until they fix the 6 or so leaks I drive past daily, and have for weeks/months, I doubt many will adhere to it.”
De Havilland Mark believes: “Weather has nothing to do with the water shortage, stop building 1000s of new houses and no new reservoirs.”
Leon E remarks: “Okay, I will put a water bill ban on then.”
Do you believe that hosepipe bans are good for the environment? Comment below or HERE to have your say.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login