THE drought could ruin plans for major floral displays in Colchester’s Castle Park this summer.

Gardeners for Colchester Council have delayed planting an Olympic display in light of an imminent hosepipe ban.

Colchester in Bloom is also concerned for the elaborate dragon-themed, 3-D display, it was hoping to enter into the Anglia competition.

Now the council is appealing to Anglian Water for an exemption from the ban.

It is also introducing water-saving measures, such as moisture retaining granules, water recycling systems and more dry resistant plants.

Dave Harris, secretary of Colchester in Bloom, said he hoped the displays would go ahead.

He said: “I am hopeful we can still have the stunning display.

“I am very pleased Colchester Council is looking at ways to find a solution.

“Hopefully we can get an exemption from the ban as long as we co-operate with the water authorities.

“Maybe we should also pray for a bit of rain.”

Pam Schomberg, chairman of Colchester in Bloom, added: “It would be an absolute disaster.

“I would sooner not drink myself than starve Castle Park of water.”

The hosepipe ban is due to come into force across Colchester on April 5.

It means people may not water a garden or plants, clean a car, fill a swimming or paddling pool, fill a domestic pond or ornamental fountain, clean walls or windows of domestic premises or clean paths or patios.

Tina Dopson, the councillor responsible for communities, said: “We are investigating with Anglian Water a way to cover our parks and gardens.

“We are hoping to get an exemption.

“A number of bedding plants have been ordered for the Olympic floral displays and we are loathe to put them up knowing there will be a ban on watering them.”

Anglian Water said an exemption was unlikely.

Ciaran Nelson, head of media for Anglian Water, said: “We have a shortage of water and if people are looking for a way around the ban, or to class themselves as exempt, they have missed the point.

“As an authority they have a responsibility to set an example for people in Colchester and encourage them to save water.”

Homes served by Veolia East, including those in Wivenhoe and Tendring, are not subject to a ban.