Hosepipe ban finally lifted after hundreds of residents sign Alison's petition

South East Water today confirmed the end of the temporary hosepipe ban that has been in place for some customers across Kent and Sussex since July 2025, when it was introduced amid one of the driest summers in recent memory.  

The company has said the decision follows sustained improvements in reservoir levels and water resource recovery over the past months. 

There had been increasing local disquiet that the measure had remained in place throughout a wet winter. This anger was compounded by people’s knowledge of countless leaks in South East Water’s pipes, all while bills increased and supply outages occurred.  

Alison Bennett, Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Sussex, said:  

“I warmly welcome the news that the hosepipe ban has finally been lifted. This has been one part of a long and challenging period for households here in Mid Sussex and right across our region. It will come as a great relief to many. 

“The idea that people were asked to adhere to a hosepipe ban, in the winter months, while reservoirs are full, groundwater levels are above average, pipes leak constantly and bills rise, is entirely unacceptable. 

“I’d like to thank everyone who signed my petition. The Mid Sussex public knows they deserve better than paying rising bills for a shoddy service. 

“The issues don’t stop here though, and I will keep up my pressure on South East Water’s leadership, and the government, to ensure we have a water system people can trust.”