The ban has been introduced by Essex and Suffolk Water following the Environment Agency’s declaration of a drought across East Anglia. A map of the area affected by the ban (Image: Essex and Suffolk Water)What does the hosepipe ban mean? Essex and Suffolk Water said the ban is necessary to protect remaining supplies and prevent further environmental impacts if dry conditions continue into autumn and winter. Businesses offering car washing services may continue operating, but the ban does not extend to cleaning public service or goods vehicles. Historical context and outlookThis is the first hosepipe ban from Essex and Suffolk Water since 1997, which lasted for almost ten months, from June 13, 1997 to April 3, 1998.