Hosepipe ban lifted

The Island's hosepipe ban will be lifted tomorrow morning.

Manx Utilities has confirmed the restriction will no longer be in force from 7am tomorrow (Wednesday September 7).

It's been in place on Island since July 29 - following dry conditions and an increase in water usage.

Further, rainfall in June was nearly 50% less than usual - standing at just  28.9mm - compared to the average 62.9mm.

However, Manx Utilities say reservoir levels have recovered sufficiently following recent heavy rainfall - now standing at 73% - 

The board says the wet weather 'has restored confidence in water stock availability as we move into the autumn and winter.'

Chairman for Manx Utilities, Rob Callister MHK said, “I appreciate hosepipe bans are not popular, however the law is there to enable Manx Utilities to put one in place to protect our precious raw water stocks when it is deemed necessary and this has been the case after what has been a very dry summer season.  The team will continue to monitor stock levels and as ever we would encourage the public to continue to use water wisely both to protect the natural environment and be aware that reduced consumption also reduces the amount of energy we consume as an Island community.”