A HOSEPIPE ban that was introduced in the summer for Yorkshire, including Ryedale, is to be lifted today (December 6).

Yorkshire Water has confirmed that the hosepipe ban introduced on 26 August, will be lifted today.

The ban was introduced by Yorkshire Water following the summer’s dry weather, which meant parts of the region had seen the lowest rainfall since the water company’s records began more than 130 years ago.

This was the first ban imposed by the firm in 27 years.

Whilst Yorkshire is still classified as within drought by the Environment Agency, the water company has said that thanks to “everyone’s efforts to save water” and a wetter than average autumn, the temporary restrictions can now be lifted.

Yorkshire Water explained that the hosepipe ban helped to save an average of 28 million litres per day, which took pressure off its reservoirs and allowed them to hold as much water as possible.

Reservoirs looking 'much healthier'

Neil Dewis, director of water at Yorkshire Water, said: “We’re really grateful to our customers for their efforts to save water whilst the weather was drier than usual.

"Thanks to a number of emergency drought schemes, drought permits, increased leakage activity, rainfall, and everyone’s efforts to save water, reservoirs are now looking much healthier – with the average level across the region now at 75 per cent.”

Yorkshire Water has also said that it is on track to reduce leakage by more than 9 per cent this year, bringing it closer to its goal of 15 per cent reduction by 2025.

Neil added: “As we’ve seen this year, climate change is making weather patterns more extreme.

"We recently submitted our latest draft water resource management plan to the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

"The document predicts future water use, weather patterns, and sets out our action plan to reduce the likelihood of future restrictions and ensure we can continue to meet demand over the next 60 years.

"We’d welcome feedback from customers and other stakeholders on our draft plan, which can be viewed on our website.

“Whilst the hosepipe ban is no longer in place, it’s really important that we all continue to save water where we can.

"Adopting small habits like reusing grey water or installing a water butt will save water and energy, helping to reduce bills and protect the environment.”

To view Yorkshire Water’s draft water resource management plan go to: https://www.yorkshirewater.com/about-us/resources/water-resources-management-plan/

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