Proposed changes to UK law on non-essential uses of water
LONDON, England, UK, Oct. 22, 2007 -- Water UK comments on the government's response to its consultation on proposed changes to powers to restrict non-essential uses of water.
Today's announcement by government to update existing legislation on use of water at times of shortage is very welcome.
Water UK is pleased that there is wide support for change. The severe drought that affected Southern England in 2005 and 2006 revealed anomalies in the legislation that were confusing to everyone.
Water UK Chief Executive Pamela Taylor said: "This is a common sense response to a real need for clarity. Water consumers have showed that they accept the need for special measures in a drought but are understandably frustrated by the inconsistencies in the current law.
"After clarity the most important thing is that the law should be flexible enough to allow water companies to reflect the needs of their particular customers. These changes will help by expanding the range of measures companies can take to protect supply for essential uses."
The main effect of the change will be to replace the existing hosepipe ban which covers washing private cars and watering gardens with discretionary use restrictions that among other things also cover cleaning patios, operating fountains, and filling swimming pools and hot tubs.
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