Hosepipe ban lifted for areas in Hailsham, Lewes and Uckfield

The hosepipe ban was officially lifted for residents in Hailsham, Lewes, and Uckfield on Friday, 27 February 2026.

This update applies specifically to customers of Advanced Water Infrastructure Networks Limited (AWIN), trading as Leaf Water, which removed its Temporary Ban on Water Use with immediate effect. This follows a broader lifting of restrictions by South East Water earlier in the month on 5 February 2026, which ended a six-month ban for 1.4 million customers across Sussex and Kent. 

Affected Areas Now Restriction-Free 

According to the public notice, the following specific Leaf Water locations have returned to normal use: 

• Hailsham Mill Road (BN27 2FH)

• Lewes Bishops Lane (BN8 5LB)

• Uckfield Beauchamp Gate, Wealden (TN22 5QE)

Why the Ban Was Lifted

The restrictions, originally introduced in July 2025 following the driest spring since 1893, were rescinded due to significant winter rainfall. 

• Reservoir Recovery: Ardingly Reservoir has returned to 100% capacity, and Arlington Reservoir recovered to approximately 83% full.
• Aquifer Recharge: Consistent heavy rain throughout January and February 2026 allowed groundwater sources to recharge effectively. 

   

Despite the lifting of the ban, water companies and Mims Davies MP continue to urge residents to be mindful of water consumption to protect resources ahead of the spring and summer months.