Other stories from last week

(by Karma Loveday)

Thames Water has lifted its hosepipe ban, citing that recent rainfall has helped restore groundwater levels in its western region and the Farmoor Reservoir near Oxford. This is now 90% full, which is average for the time of year. Storage in London is steadily improving but remains below average for the time of year.

Water Plus and a trio of explorers rowing across the Atlantic have teamed up to raise awareness and engagement on reducing planetary impact. The retailer is sponsoring the 3,000 mile crossing by the Call to Earth team, and both parties will be sharing insights and resources on sustainable practices to save water, cut carbon and clear plastic from the sea. The trio will row in shifts, 24 hours a day, unsupported, and use solar panels to desalinate sea water for drinking. 

Pace Construction, a developer and contractor specialising in new build homes and energy-efficient construction, has become the first developer to secure an incentive payment (more than £60,000) from Affinity Water through its Environmental Incentives Common Framework (EICF) audit. Launched by Ofwat in April 2025, the EICF allows water companies to offer financial incentives to developers for homes that achieve higher standards of water efficiency. The development in question is of 103 flats with water-efficient fittings, fixtures and flow restrictors, facilitating an estimated water use of 89.4 litres per person per day. 

In separate news, Affinity Water said its work with delivery body Groundwork and retailer Pozitive Water, fitting simple water saving devices at Watford FC’s Vicarage Road Stadium, is saving up to 70,000 litres on the club’s busiest match days.