Water shortage / Hose pipe ban

[beanaseireann]

I find it extraordinary that in Ireland due to the hot weather we have a hose pipe ban and water restrictions yet the UK with its population density of 268 people per square mile and even hotter weather and lack of rain compared with Ireland's population density of 70 people per square metre doesn't have a hose pipe ban or water restrictions.
I have no problem using water sparingly but the anomaly between the two countries amazes me.
Are Irish Water over reacting or being very conscientious thinking of the months ahead ?

[MarDhea]

But there is a hose pipe ban in loads of areas of England and Wales.

[beanaseireann]

Oh ok then. I thought it was just in Ireland.

[UbercornsGoggles]

Hose pipe bans are not only related to how dry it is, but also what strategic reserves each water company has. So for example the Lake District reservoirs and lakes supply the majority of the north west of England, so a large population. In the north east Kielder reservoir (which is huge) serves a much smaller population and Northumbrian Water have more reservoirs and river supplies to support the rest of the region. So although both regions may receive the same (lack of) rainfall you are much more likely to have a hosepipe ban in the north west.