Will there be a hosepipe ban in Oxfordshire by Thames Water?

The utility said the demand, including from extra showers and watering the garden, is putting increased pressure on its network

To help maintain supplies for everyone in the area, Thames Water is asking customers to help keep water flowing from their taps by using water responsibly and only for “essential” needs until demand reduces.

Andrew Tucker, water demand reduction manager at Thames Water, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the warmer weather and stay hydrated, but we have also seen big spikes in demand as temperatures have risen over several days, particularly from outdoor water use.

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“All of our water is treated to drinking quality standards and comes from local sources, so using it efficiently in the garden really helps reduce the amount we take from the environment.

“Customers can help us keep water flowing by using water wisely, particularly during this hot, dry period when we are seeing demand is high.”

The utility did not confirm whether it would be issuing a hosepipe ban in its region though when asked.

On Thursday, South East Water became the first utility to announce a temporary hosepipe ban for people living in Kent with immediate effect.

Thames Water’s last hosepipe ban lasted for exactly four months and five days. It began on July 22, 2025 and was officially lifted on November 27, 2025.

At the end of May, before the latest heatwave, Farmoor Reservoir in Oxfordshire was 99 per cent full, which is above average for the time of year.

Thames Water said people can help reduce water by avoiding using hoses and sprinklers, delaying washing vehicles until demand has reduced, avoiding filling paddling pools or topping them up unnecessarily, watering plants only if essential, using a watering can, turning off taps when they’re not in use and only using the water you need for cooking, drinking and personal hygiene.