Published: Thursday 23 July 2026
We are taking practical steps to reduce water use in our parks during London’s hosepipe ban.
The changes, which are necessary because public parks are covered by the ban, will focus water supplies on young trees, new planting schemes and wildlife and fish in the borough’s ponds.
Kensington Memorial Park waterplay will remain open because it recycles water, while the non-recycling splashpad at Cremorne Gardens will close.
What actions are we taking during the hosepipe ban?
- Switching off, draining and safely fencing the Iris Garden fountain in Holland Park
- Topping up ponds only when needed to protect fish and wildlife
- Prioritising trees planted within the past three planting seasons
- Using watering cans and buckets for other plants, with new and permanent planting given priority
- Limiting the watering of temporary flower displays
- Pausing pressure washing, mechanical sweeping and watering of sports areas unless needed for health and safety
- Temporarily closing Cremorne Gardens splash pad.
The measures may mean that water levels fall below normal in the Kyoto Garden pond, Lord Holland’s pond, Holland Park’s wildlife pond and the Voysey Garden pond at Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance.
Cllr Josh Rendall, Lead Member for Parks, said:
“We know how important our parks are to residents, especially during warm weather, so we are acting early to save water and only use it where it will make the biggest difference.
“These changes ensure we are complying with the hosepipe ban while protecting young trees, new planting and the wildlife that depends on our ponds. Keeping the water-recycling play area at Kensington Memorial Park open also means families can still enjoy a place to cool down this summer.”
What can I do if I have a garden?
You can still water plants using a watering can, bucket or stored rainwater. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Find out more from Thames Water's temporary hosepipe ban guidance.