Hopepipe ban removed but supplies should still be used wisely
27/11/2025
Above average rainfall has led to the change
As December approaches people in the Banbury area can once again water their gardens, fill paddling pools and wash their cars using a hosepipe.
Thames Water lifted its hosepipe ban at 7am today following above-average rainfall over the last couple of months and water conservation measures by customers.
But, there’s a warning we should use supplies wisely so the system can recharge in readiness for next spring and summer.
The ban was introduced on July 22 following record-breaking dry weather over the spring and the summer.
Farmoor Reservoir is now at 90 percent storage – which is average for the time of year.
Nevil Muncaster, Strategic Water Resources Director at Thames Water, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to our customers for their support in helping to protect water supplies over the past few months.
“The rain over the last few weeks has helped restore groundwater levels in the region, which were still recovering after a record-breaking summer, and allows us to now lift usage restrictions. While groundwater levels feeding the River Thames, which is the source of water for Farmoor reservoir, have recovered we will continue to monitor rainfall and groundwater levels over the coming months to make sure we are still in a good position for 2026.
“We’re encouraging all our customers to keep using water wisely over the winter months so water resources in our region continue to recharge ready for spring and summer next year.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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