SOUTHERN Water has ruled out the prospect of an imminent hosepipe ban for parts of Sussex, despite a drought being declared.

Restrictions on water usage came into force today for South East Water customers in parts of eastern Sussex, including Burgess Hill, Peacehaven, Eastbourne, Seaford and Haywards Heath.

However, Southern Water said that its supply relies on groundwater from underground aquifers, which it says has a “stronger resource position” than some reservoirs across the country.

The announcement comes as drought was declared after Sussex experienced its driest July in history.

The Argus: London, along with the south-west, south-east and east of England, has had a drought declared after a prolonged period of dry weatherLondon, along with the south-west, south-east and east of England, has had a drought declared after a prolonged period of dry weather

A spokesman for the water firm said: “While there is no current requirement for any restrictions, we keep in close contact with the government, regulators and environmental stakeholders and constantly review the position.”

Water minister Steve Double said action was being taken by the government, the Environment Agency, and others to manage the impacts of the drought.

He said: “All water companies have reassured us that essential supplies are still safe, and we have made it clear it is their duty to maintain those supplies.

“We are better prepared than ever before for periods of dry weather, but we will continue to closely monitor the situation, including impacts on farmers and the environment, and take further action as needed.”

The Argus: Wildfires have erupted across parts of Sussex in recent days, including this one near a care home in Walberton earlier this weekWildfires have erupted across parts of Sussex in recent days, including this one near a care home in Walberton earlier this week

Meanwhile, Morrisons has become the latest supermarket to withdraw disposable barbecues from sale “until further notice” due to concerns over the fire risk they pose in the hot, dry weather.

Retailers have been put under pressure to suspend sales after fire brigades warned that dry conditions across the country mean grassy areas are “like tinderboxes”.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service revealed they have tackled 32 grassland fires since July, with a third of those since the start of August alone. 

The Met Office has warned of the prospect of “exceptionally severe” wildfires over the weekend across parts of the South Downs.

Temperatures reached 34.2C in the Sussex village of Wiggonholt - believed to be the hottest part of the country today.