Hosepipe ban from 11th July 2026

Saturday, 11th July 2026 — 1.01am onwards // Hosepipe restrictions come into force across the Anglian Water region: residents across the Anglian Water region are being asked to help protect water supplies by following new hosepipe restrictions, which come into force from 1:01am on Saturday, 11th July 2026. The temporary restrictions have been introduced following one of the driest periods in recent years, combined with exceptionally high demand for water during the recent hot weather.

Restrictions introduced across the Anglian Water region

Residents across the Anglian Water region are being asked to help protect water supplies by following new hosepipe restrictions, which come into force from 1:01am on Saturday, 11th July 2026.

The temporary restrictions have been introduced following one of the driest periods in recent years, combined with exceptionally high demand for water during the recent hot weather.

What does this mean?

For most households, a hosepipe must not be used for activities such as:

  • Watering gardens, lawns and plants
  • Filling paddling pools, swimming pools or hot tubs
  • Washing cars, caravans, boats or trailers
  • Cleaning patios, paths, walls or windows

There are a number of exemptions, including certain health, welfare and business uses, so anyone who is unsure should check the full guidance from Anglian Water.

Why are the restrictions needed?

Although there has been the occasional shower, the East of England has experienced a prolonged spell of dry weather.

Reservoirs, rivers and underground water sources are under increasing pressure, while demand for drinking water has reached record levels during the recent heatwaves.

The restrictions are intended to ensure there is enough water for essential daily use while also helping to protect the local environment.

How you can help

Even if you do not normally use a hosepipe, there are plenty of simple ways to reduce water consumption:

  • Water plants with a watering can rather than a hose.
  • Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
  • Collect rainwater in a water butt for use around the garden.
  • Avoid leaving taps running unnecessarily.
  • Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full.

Every little helps, and if everyone reduces their water use slightly, it can make a significant difference across the region.


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Here you will find the live weather in Stambourne, our events calendar, ideas on what to do in the area, lots of information on the history of the village, what’s happening and almost 10 years of the Stambourne Newsletter, the village’s bi-monthly printed newsletter. There are also lots of photos of the village as it is now as well as in times gone by.

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