TGA CALLS FOR CONSISTENT 28-DAY EXEMPTION

The Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA), the representative body for professional turfgrass growers in the UK, is calling on all water companies to apply a clear and consistent exemption  allowing newly laid turf to be watered for at least 28 days during Temporary Use Bans. 

At the time of writing, six water companies have announced or introduced Temporary Use Bans across all or part of their supply areas: Affinity Water, Anglian Water, Cambridge Water, South East Water, Southern Water and South West Water. 

The TGA say they fully recognise the pressures facing water supplies and supports sensible measures to reduce unnecessary water use. However, while most current restrictions include an exemption or concession allowing newly laid turf to be watered during its initial establishment period, the say the wording and conditions vary considerably between water companies.

Some companies allow newly laid turf to be watered for 28 days after installation, while others only permit the watering of turf that was laid before restrictions began. Some also impose conditions relating to watering times, methods or evidence of when the turf was laid. 

The TGA believes this inconsistent messaging risks causing unnecessary confusion among consumers. That uncertainty can then affect the wider supply chain, leading to cancelled or postponed turf orders and landscaping projects. 

The commonly used term “hosepipe ban” can add to this confusion they argue, as it may suggest that every use of a hosepipe is prohibited. Temporary Use Bans are more accurately understood as water-use restrictions, with specific exemptions and concessions remaining in place for certain activities. 

Freshly laid turf must be watered while it establishes roots into the soil beneath it. Without sufficient water during this critical period, the turf may fail, wasting the turf itself, the resources used to produce and transport it, any water already applied and the customer’s investment. 

The TGA say they have worked with water companies, water-industry bodies and the wider landscaping sector for many years to establish a clear distinction between newly laid turf and established lawns. 

The Association warns that excessive discretion between water companies could lead to confusion, uncertainty and inconsistency and are therefore calling on all water companies to apply and clearly communicate a consistent minimum 28-day establishment exemption for newly laid turf. 

Richard Owens, chair of the Turfgrass Growers Association, said, “The TGA fully understands the need to protect water supplies and supports responsible action to reduce unnecessary water use. 

“However, the conditions currently being applied vary considerably between water companies and are not always easy for customers to find or understand. This creates avoidable uncertainty at a time when people need clear and practical information. 

“This is not about seeking unrestricted water use. Water should be used carefully, efficiently and only for the essential establishment of newly laid turf."

The TGA has published a summary of the current water company guidance here