WATER supplier Veolia Water Central and Veolia Water Southeast implemented a temporary use ban (hosepipe ban) on April 5 in response to two successive autumn and winters of below average rainfall.

Since then, there have been six weeks of exceptionally wet weather.

The significant rainfall and the reduced demand for water due to the hosepipe ban, has resulted in the first positive recharge of groundwater for over a year in the underground aquifers, from which Veolia Water takes most of its water.

The level of recharge achieved so far has been small, compared to what will be needed to restore groundwater resources to normal levels, but it has been sufficient to allow for a limited review of the exceptions given to assist businesses during the drought.

In view of this, Veolia Water Central and Veolia Water Southeast are announcing that from today, businesses whose income is solely dependant on turf laying and planting will be able to use the minimum amount of water necessary to preserve new gardens, lawns and plants for a period up to 28 days.

Mike Pocock, water resources manager, said: “We are keen to help businesses where we can. Unfortunately at present, we will not be relaxing the temporary use ban further, as we need to conserve our supply of water to prepare for the possibility of a third dry autumn and winter.

“Months of wet weather, particularly during the next autumn and winter period will be needed to restore groundwater to normal levels”.

Veolia Water’s website contains more information on the drought, where visitors can receive advice and tips on saving water and using water more efficiently, together with free and discounted water saving devices at veoliawater.co.uk/drought