Thames Water has introduced a Temporary Use Ban (TUB) for areas within its clean water network, specifically targeting postcodes OX, GL, SN, RG4, RG8, and RG9. This ban was announced on July 14, following the driest spring in over a century and England’s hottest June on record. The Environment Agency has classified the Thames Valley area as experiencing Prolonged Dry Weather, indicating a heightened risk of drought. The TUB is part of Thames Water’s strategy to protect customer supplies and the environment.
Under the TUB, customers are prohibited from using hosepipes for activities such as washing cars, watering gardens, filling paddling pools, and cleaning windows. While the ban does not affect businesses that rely heavily on water, such as garden centers and car washes, Thames Water encourages all residents to be mindful of their water consumption.
Nevil Muncaster, Strategic Water Resources Director at Thames Water, emphasized the company’s commitment to managing water resources effectively during the ongoing dry conditions. He highlighted the importance of customer cooperation in conserving water through simple measures like turning off taps while brushing teeth and fixing leaks.
“Our engineers are working around the clock to ensure supply for all our customers, and we have additional teams in the field addressing leaks, which often increase during prolonged dry periods due to ground shifts affecting our pipes. Everyone has a role in conserving water, and customers can assist by saving water at home and in their gardens. Simple actions like turning off taps while brushing teeth, repairing leaky toilets, and allowing lawns to dry can make a significant impact. I appreciate all our customers for their understanding and support thus far.”
The prolonged heat and below-average rainfall have reduced water availability, with the Thames Valley receiving only 40% of its normal rainfall from March to June 2025. This has led to increased water demand, particularly on hot days. Water from the River Thames is stored at the Farmoor reservoir, which is expected to continue declining if dry conditions persist.
Thames Water has also implemented measures to reduce leaks, achieving a 13.2% decrease since 2020. The company is utilizing innovative technologies for leak detection and is planning a new reservoir in Oxfordshire to secure water supplies for 15 million people in the South East, alongside a drought resilience project in London that includes water recycling initiatives.
Source: Thames Water
