Thames Water: ‘Fix our pipes before hosepipe ban’

The company has reported a significant rise in water demand during recent high temperatures, with daily household use up by an average of 30 per cent, particularly for outdoor purposes.

Andrew Tucker, water demand reduction manager at Thames Water, said: “We saw a significant rise in demand across our region recently, particularly for outdoor water-use.

“Demand increased so sharply in some areas that people were using water faster than we could produce and move it through our network.

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Farmoor Reservoir in Oxfordshire is 97% full, which is above average for the time of year. (Image: Google Maps)

“We’d like to thank customers who played their part by reducing usage during this extreme weather, helping to keep supplies flowing while staying hydrated and safe.”

Thames Water, which introduced its last hosepipe ban on July 22, 2025, and lifted it on November 27 the same year, is urging customers to avoid using hoses and sprinklers during hot spells.

The company is working round the clock to manage supplies and repair leaks.

The warning follows the introduction of a hosepipe ban by Anglian Water, its first in a decade, due to persistent hot and dry conditions.

Cambridge Water and Affinity Water have also announced restrictions for neighbouring regions.

The news has sparked strong reactions from customers.

Andy Black said: “Farmborough reservoir 99% full , above average.”

Steven Matthews said: “Had to check this and yes, at the end of June… Both London reservoirs also higher than usual at 89% and 95%”

He said: “I’m assuming the restrictions are forward looking then? They know they will run out due to insufficient investment in resources.”

Some residents expressed frustration with long-standing infrastructure problems.

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Thames Water (Image: Newsquest)

Karen Argrave said: “All around Berkshire , Oxfordshire and neighbouring counties… building all these houses but no more infrastructure or resources and not forgetting reservoirs , so no wonder we have a hose pipe ban coming into force… it’s called summer …”

Luke Howard said: “It’s simple sort out all the burst pipes and the leaks and provide an efficient service – you can then dictate to us bill payers about what we can and can’t do. Till then file this with the rest of your issues that carpet that keeps being lifted and swept under”

Others made light of the situation.

Andy Prior said: “Andy Prior Need to fix your miles of broken pipes before you think about a hosepipe ban, anyway my hosepipe identifies as a watering can so im ok”

Thames Water has not yet introduced a hosepipe ban but continues to urge customers to conserve water during hot weather to help maintain supplies.