Central Coast residents will soon enjoy some additional outdoor water use following Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils endorsement to amend the current Level 3 water restrictions.

The changes, which will apply from Sunday 14 June 2009 allow residents to water gardens with a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle and drip irrigation systems for one hour on two days of the week.

Watering will be restricted between the hours of 6am - 9am and 4pm - 7pm.

Odd number houses will be permitted to water on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while even number houses can water on Thursdays and Sundays.

Wyong Shire Mayor Bob Graham said the change would be welcomed by the Coast’s avid gardeners.

“The gardeners of the Central Coast have weathered the drought incredibly well, with storage levels up over the 32% mark it’s time we rewarded them with limited use of their hoses,” he said.                                                

“The change to Level 3 restrictions is not however an invitation to waste water. We expect everyone on the Central Coast to continue to be mindful of the drought we have just endured and to ensure they remain water wise.

“This is why we continue to ban the use of sprinklers, fixed hoses and micro spray systems and the washing down of hard surfaces.

”We also strongly encourage residents to make sure they only water gardens and lawns when they need it and don’t water for the sake of watering.”

Gosford City Deputy Mayor Craig Doyle said he expected to see residents continuing their water wise practices while taking advantage of the restriction change.

“Residents must ensure they have a trigger nozzle connected to the hose at all times, so they can control the use of the water,” he said.

“We also hope residents and businesses ensure no water leaves their property, they only use what they need and the lessons learned during the drought, including the value of rainwater and greywater, are remembered.

"The voluntary water use target of 150 litres per person per day remains unchanged, which will help guide residents with their water usage.

“This way we can ensure everyone continues to benefit from the change", said Councillor Doyle.

The use of hoses for watering on Mondays, Tuesday and Fridays is not permitted. Residents who wish to water on these days may use a bucket or watering can at any time.

Residential exemption permits issued prior to the 14 June 2009 for the watering of gardens or lawns with hand held hoses are now void.

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Note: Changes to Rainwater Tank Rebates:

Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils have also adopted changes to the current Rainwater Tank Rebate.

As at 1 August 2009 the Councils will only provide a rebate for the internal connection of existing rainwater tanks.

Resident purchasing a new rainwater tank after 1 August 2009 will continue to be able to apply for the Australian and NSW Government rebates. 

Media contact:           Kylie Gillett (Gosford) on 02 4304 7068