Welsh Water Hosepipe Ban: 33,000 Properties Affected in West Wales

Welsh Water is implementing a hosepipe ban affecting 33,000 properties in west Wales, effective from 10:00 BST on Sunday, July 19. The ban covers areas in mid and south Ceredigion (including Llanon, Llangwyryfon, Cwm Ystwyth), north Pembrokeshire (including Crymych, Llanfyrnach, Nevern), and parts of north Carmarthenshire (including Farmers, Pencader, Hermon). The ban follows several weeks of 'unprecedented' high demand, with Welsh Water supplying about one billion litres of drinking water daily—20% more than expected for this time of year. Growing numbers of holiday-makers and visitors are expected to add further pressure. Violators face fines up to £1,000 under the Water Industry Act. Kit Wilson, chief customer officer, said the decision was 'not an easy decision' but necessary to protect essential supplies. Infrastructure strain is evident from the demand surge and the need for restrictions.