Public Strongly Supports Temporary Water Use Bans, New Research Reveals
New research commissioned by Waterwise, the UK’s leading authority on water efficiency, demonstrates overwhelming public support for temporary water use restrictions, such as not using a hosepipe or sprinklers, during periods of drought and high temperatures. The omni poll, conducted over the weekend of August 29-31, 2025, surveyed more than 2,000 people across the UK, revealing a clear public consensus on the necessity of water conservation measures.
The findings come at a critical time, as parts of the UK have experienced the driest start to the year since 1976, leading to unprecedented demand for water. Temporary Use Bans (TUBs) have been implemented in parts of Yorkshire and several counties in the South of England to ensure sufficient water supplies for all.
Key findings from the research:
- Strong support for restrictions: 63% of participants believe it is right to ask people not to use a hosepipe for as long as necessary, with only 17% disagreeing and 20% unsure.
- Justifiable bans: 70% of respondents considered the instatement of a temporary use ban during hot, dry, and sunny conditions to be justifiable, with only 11% disagreeing and 19% unsure.
- Growing water concern: 73% expressed concern about water availability in the UK, regardless of whether their area was under a ban or not.
- People are taking action: 70% of people reported taking action to reduce their household water consumption. This includes 31% already taking action, 23% trying to do more, and 16% implementing new water-saving measures.
“This research clearly shows that the public understands and supports the need for temporary water use restrictions during drought conditions,” said Nicci Russell, CEO at Waterwise. “The high level of concern during drought and heatwaves for water availability, coupled with the willingness to take action, provides a strong foundation for future water efficiency campaigns and highlights the public’s commitment to ensuring water security for everyone. The challenge now is to keep that concern and action going all year round. We are running out of water, and all of us have a part to play.”
This research was funded by the Environment Agency and CCW, underscoring the collaborative effort to understand public sentiment and enhance the effectiveness of water management strategies. Waterwise is now working with both organisations to develop further research into public attitudes to inform more impactful communication campaigns for future droughts and water efficiency initiatives.
Waterwise
Waterwise is the UK’s leading independent voice on water efficiency, working to drive water-saving across society through work in policy, research, innovation and public engagement. Our vision is that water is used wisely every day, everywhere, by everyone, and our mission is to lead and inspire change so that water is never wasted.
Access the Waterwise TUBs 2025 research document here.
For more information about our research, please contact Jo Osborn, Head of Policy and Research: jo.osborn@waterwise.org.uk
Waterwise is happy to take press enquiries or interviews. Please contact chris.scullion@waterwise.org.uk
Watch our CEO Nicci Russell’s TEDx Talk “Running out of water in the UK: Hidden crisis or absurd prospect?” Watch here.
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