The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has responded to the Environment and Climate Change Committee’s drought report, published this week.

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said: “We have long said that significant investment in water infrastructure is essential to give this country water resilience and to secure the future of environmental horticulture. We welcome the Environment and Climate Change Committee's Drought report, published today, which includes many recommendations we advocate for, such as rainwater harvesting and removing barriers to water storage facilities. However, the report falls short of calling for a long-term water strategy.

“Last summer, this country was suffering from drought and water restrictions. Six months later, we were experiencing flooding. These extremes make it very difficult for our growers, who ironically, are producing the very plants and trees our country will rely on in the future to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“The report’s recommendation of a year-long communication plan is a step in the right direction towards a more joined-up approach to communicating water restrictions to the public. Garden centres and ornamental plant growers account for just 0.15% of the UK's total water use, but Temporary Use Bans (TUBS), often referred to as hosepipe bans, can negatively impact our sector through revenue losses for garden centres and growers.

“The HTA will continue to work with the National Drought Group and the government to find ways to support our members, our industry and to help navigate any future water challenges.”