• Governance

How the Hose Pipe Ban Affects Pitches Across England

Many parts of the country have moved in or towards temporary water use bans (otherwise known as hose pipe bans). England Hockey has confirmed with each major water supplier the position of irrigating pitches for hockey use.

All information has been gathered directly from water companies and where exemption is mentioned this has been confirmed as of Tuesday 16 August 2022. 

Please be alert to changes in guidance within your area by consulting your local water company's website. 

Private boreholes are exempt across all areas.

CompanyPosition
Northumbiran WaterNo ban, proceed as normal
Yorkshire WaterHockey can continue with irrigation
United UtilitiesNo ban, proceed as normal
Severn Trent WaterNo ban, proceed as normal
Anglian WaterNo ban, proceed as normal
Wessex WaterNo ban, proceed as normal
South West WaterHockey can continue with irrigation as long as the site operates as a business.
Thames Water

The ban comes into place on Wednesday 24 August.

Hockey can continue with irrigation as long as the site operates as a business.

Thames Water has advised checking their guidance every few days to ensure compliance.

Southern WaterSports are exempt from the temporary use ban which covers Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
South East WaterHockey can continue with irrigation.

Only irrigate when required and do not overwater.

Now is a good time to ask your carpet manufacturer about the amount of water required and adjust your irrigation to limit supply to the correct amount if required. This could save water, and money plus improve the playing experience of your field.

If you have any questions please get in touch with facilities@englandhockey.co.uk