Rochdale will still be In Bloom during hosepipe ban

Photo: Greg Couzens

Rochdale in Bloom - St Mary in the Baum

With the impending hosepipe ban set to be introduced on Sunday (5 August), the vivid floral displays around Rochdale for the national In Bloom contest will still be watered, via access to an underground water supply that is safe for flowers, but not for drinking.

Martin Taylor, head of environmental management at Rochdale Borough Council said: “The hosepipe ban comes into effect on the 5 August. From then onwards we will be using water from private, untreated boreholes that are safe for plants to drink but not for human consumption.”

“Residents have really welcomed the investment in public realm, and clean and green, and the difference it has made across the borough.

"We’ve recently gained two new Green Flag awards, meaning the borough of Rochdale now has ten award winning parks.

"This year Rochdale has also been chosen to represent the north west in the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Britain in Bloom competition after achieving gold medal status for the last two years.

"Our Rochdale in Bloom success wouldn't happen if we only relied on rain to water the plants.”

The hosepipe ban will be enforced by United Utilities across the north west due to the summer heatwave.