Good news as Waterford hosepipe ban to end but locals warned drought still hitting supplies

The hosepipe ban in Waterford will officially come to an end next week, but Uisce Éireann is warning that drought conditions are still affecting several parts of the county.

The Water Conservation Order, introduced during the summer heatwave, will lapse on Monday, September 16, after months of restrictions aimed at easing pressure on supplies.

Uisce Éireann has praised households and businesses across Waterford for their efforts in conserving water, but the utility has urged locals not to ease up just yet.

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Several supplies across the county remain in drought, including Portlaw, Ballymacarby, and Kilrossanty (Lemybrien), which are currently being supplemented by tankered water.

Ballymoate, Clashmore, Faha, Lacken, Pairc An Aonaigh, and Tinabinna also remain in drought, with Ballymoate experiencing frequent supply interruptions.

Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann, said that while the lifting of restrictions was welcome, communities need to keep saving water: "Now that the hosepipe ban is lifted, it's more important than ever that we don't lose momentum.

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"Many supplies across the county remain under pressure, and while the weather is changing, it will take time for our sources to fully recover.

"In fact, well levels in several areas have shown no signs of improvement, and tankering remains essential to maintain supply."

The reminder comes as Water Conservation Orders have been extended in Meath, Westmeath and Donegal until October 13, after levels in those counties remained critically low.

Uisce Éireann is encouraging Waterford households to continue with simple steps, such as turning off taps when brushing their teeth, shortening showers, and swapping hoses for watering cans. For more tips on how to conserve water, visit water.ie.