Cork's Hosepipe Ban to End Tuesday After Summer of Water Conservation

Cork County's water restrictions will be lifted on Tuesday, 16 September, but residents are urged to continue conserving water as several areas remain in drought conditions requiring emergency supplies.

Uisce Éireann confirmed today that the Water Conservation Order, commonly known as the hosepipe ban, will lapse on Monday after being in place throughout the summer months. The utility company praised Cork residents for their cooperation during what it described as a period of unprecedented pressure on local water supplies.

However, the lifting of restrictions comes with a cautionary message as multiple areas across the county continue to face severe water shortages. Six locations remain in drought conditions: Ballincurrig/Lisgoold, Dursey Island, Kilnagorteen, Nohoval, Whitechurch and Clonakilty.

These areas are currently being sustained through tankered water deliveries, with some showing no signs of recovery despite recent rainfall.

Brian O'Leary, Regional Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann, said:

"We're extremely grateful to the people of Cork for their efforts to conserve water over the summer. Now that the hosepipe ban is lifted, it's more important than ever that we don't lose momentum."

He added: "Many supplies across the county remain under pressure, and while the weather is changing, it will take time for our sources to fully recover. In fact, well levels in several areas have shown no signs of improvement, and tankering remains essential to maintain supply."

The company emphasised that even small changes in water usage habits can make a significant difference to stretched supplies. Simple measures like turning off taps while brushing teeth can save up to six litres per minute, whilst switching from baths to showers can halve water consumption.

Other recommended conservation steps include using a watering can instead of a hose for gardens, washing cars with a bucket and sponge rather than a hose, and ensuring dishwashers and washing machines are fully loaded before use.

The slow recovery of water sources has been attributed to the complex process of groundwater recharge. Rainwater must filter through multiple layers of soil, sand and rock before reaching underground reservoirs, a process that can take weeks or months even after sustained rainfall.

Meanwhile, Water Conservation Orders remain in place for three other locations across Ireland: Kells-Oldcastle in Meath, Mullingar in Westmeath, and Milford in Donegal. These restrictions have been extended until 13 October due to critically low water levels in supplying lakes.

Cork residents can access Uisce Éireann's Water Conservation Calculator and additional tips at water.ie/calculator to help monitor and reduce their household water usage.