Ancient to modern

20/04/2005

The water supply to more than 2,000 people in an ancient Northumberland town is to be improved.

Northumbrian Water is to renew 26km of water main at a cost of £2 million in Alnwick and the surrounding areas.  This work, which will begin on Tuesday 3 May and last up to eight months, will improve water quality, reduce leakage and safeguard the water supply for future generations.

Customers are invited to come and find out more about the work and raise any questions or concerns they may have at a customer information day to be held on Thursday 28 April 2005 at Council Chambers, Clayport Street, Alnwick from 2.00pm to 7.00pm.

The water company will do all it can to minimise disruption while this work is carried out and is working closely with the local authorities to carefully plan any traffic management required.  Work in the town centre will be avoided, wherever possible, over the Alnwick Festival and Christmas periods.

Alistair Baker, Northumbrian Water’s Communications and PR Manager, said:  “This is essential work to upgrade the water mains network, parts of which are up to 80 years old.  We will be working in partnership with archaeologists throughout the entire project to ensure correct procedures are carried out and what lies underground is protected.  We will avoid digging open-cut trenches where possible to minimise disruption.”

Bogus callers are known to operate in Northumbrian Water’s supply area.  It is unlikely that anyone from the water company will need access into a customer’s property while this work is carried out.  If customers are in any doubt about the validity of a caller claiming to be from Northumbrian Water or the ‘water board’ they should ring the Northumbrian Water Customer Centre on 0845 717 1100.

Within the next few days, customers who are going to be affected by this work will receive further information and advice by letter.  If customers, especially those with special needs, have any queries or concerns relating to the work they should ring the Northumbrian Water Customer Centre.

For further information please contact Joanne Dye on 0191 301 6733.