Tighter water restrictions

Gosford and Wyong Councils have agreed to introduce tighter water restrictions in an attempt to reduce water use by a further eight per cent.

Level 2 restriction levels will come into effect from Monday, May 17

Hand-held hoses may only be used for up to one hour a day from 7am to 8am and from 6pm to 7pm.

Use is restricted to alternate days with even house numbers allowed on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and odd house numbers allowed on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Microspray and drip irrigation systems are allowed for one hour a day on the same basis.

Cars and boats are to be washed with a bucket, not a hose (including cars in car yards).

Hoses can be used to rinse boat motors, bilges, trailer brakes and wheels for up to 10 minutes.

Current restrictions which prohibit the washing down of paths and driveways, and the refilling of existing backyard pools wilol still apply.

Both Councils will actively pursue alternate water supplies for irrigating council ovals, playing fields and other facilities.

Gosford mayor Cr Malcolm Brooks said many regions of NSW had already moved to water higher restriction levels to counter the ongoing drought conditions along the eastern coastline.

"Gosford and Wyong are simply following an increasing trend across the coastal stretch," he said.

"More than 50 per cent of our current water use is outside the home consequently these higher water restriction levels only relate to outdoor use and should not mean a significant change for many residents.

"They have the potential to significantly make a difference to our overall water use.

"We can all do our bit to help reduce water usage in the region, irrespective of whether there are official water restrictions or not.

"Saving eight per cent can be as simple as fixing leaky taps, taking shorter showers, ensuring a full load in washing machines and dishwashers before turning them on, or mulching deeply around trees and shrubs in our gardens."

Press release, May 10