Anglian Water to look at restrictions on businesses

Businesses could soon be affected by water restrictions as part of plans being considered by Anglian Water, it has emerged.

The company, which serves seven million customers predominantly in the east of England, said it would explore banning non-essential use of water for businesses if supplies fall further.

A hosepipe ban is already in place for residential users which the water firm said has led to a reduction in demand by about five percent.

Permission from the Department for the Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra) would be required for restrictions on businesses. Dr Geoff Darch from Anglian Water told the BBC it is a measure being considered.

Similar measures have already been requested by Southern Water, which has applied for a Drought Order and Non-Essential Use Ban (NEUB) in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The Environment Agency declared more than half of England in drought, and as a precautionary measure the ban could be implemented to "protect water supplies and the environment".

Restrictions on farmers being able to abstract water are already in force for 1,353 licences.

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Darch, head of strategic asset planning at Anglian Water, told the BBC restrictions on businesses is the "next available option" and that it is something the firm is planning for.

He said people reducing water usage was helping and restrictions do not have to be escalated at this time - but more still needs to be done to prevent tougher action.

"We are appealing for people to be as efficient as possible, particularly over the next few days and weeks as we get through this dry period to help avoid further restrictions," he added.

Anglian Water is continuing to closely monitor conditions and current restrictions will remain in place for as long as they are needed to help protect water supplies and the environment.

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