Water company says it has "no plans to introduce a hosepipe ban this summer"

South West Water has assured customers that there are no plans to introduce a hosepipe ban this summer, citing strong water resources across the region thanks to significant investment and the efforts of local households.

The company told The Moorlander: “We have no plans to introduce a hosepipe ban this summer. Thanks to the efforts of our customers and the significant investment we've made, our water resources are in a much stronger position. We’ve invested £150m to increase and diversify supplies across the region and issued thousands of water-saving devices to help households make small changes with a big impact. Hundreds of customers across the South West have been pioneering new tariffs to save money and only pay for the water they use. Our reservoirs are in a healthy position – we are ready for Summer.”

South West Water also encouraged the public to continue using water wisely during the warmer months. 

“The one thing none of us can control is the weather and we know demand for water rises in warmer months, so everyone should keep using water wisely – simple steps like using a watering can instead of a hose, or taking shorter showers, really do help. Whether you're checking bathing water quality on WaterFit Live before heading to the beach, or exploring our nature-based projects, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the summer while protecting our most precious resource,” the company added.

The company highlighted several initiatives designed to improve water storage and supply, including the development of a natural water storage lake at Blackpool pit, which will add 12 per cent to the capacity of Colliford Reservoir on Bodmin Moor.

South West Water has said it is also progressing with its North Devon smart metering programme, helping customers reduce water waste and costs.

In terms of water supply, the company says it provides 870 million litres daily to 3.5 million people and serves an additional 10 million visitors to the region each year. 

South West Water operates 23 reservoirs and 42 water treatment works, with recent upgrades to the Hore Down Water Treatment Works increasing Devon's water supply by an additional 4 million litres per day.

Despite England experiencing its driest March since 1961, the company said that Colliford Reservoir is currently at 84.1 per cent of its capacity, 11.6 per cent higher than this time in 2022. 

South West Water confirmed that as of 14 May 2025, Roadford Reservoir is at 93.4 per cent capacity, up from the same time in 2022. Burrator Reservoir is at 92.6 per cent, and Wimbleball Lake is at 91.7 per cent.

These are three of their six largest reservoirs they operate. 

South West Water has said it made significant progress in reducing leaks, with a target to reach industry-leading leakage levels by 2030.