Upgrade flows

27/09/2005

More than ten thousand people are to benefit from millions of pounds being invested in the Sunderland area.

Northumbrian Water is to carry out essential improvement work upgrading 28km of water main in the west area of Sunderland at a cost of £4.5 million, improving the water quality supplied to 12,000 properties.

This work, which will begin on Monday 3 October 2005 and last up to twelve months, will also reduce leakage and safeguard the water supply for future generations.

Customers are invited to find out more about the work and raise any questions or concerns at a drop-in customer information session on Monday 3 October 2005 at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Mowbray Park Gardens, Sunderland, 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.

Richard Johnston, Northumbrian Water’s Project Manager, said:  “This work to upgrade the water mains network is essential, parts of the network are at least 70 years old.  We will avoid digging open-cut holes and will use trenchless technology where possible to minimise disruption.”

Customers affected by this work have received further information and advice in writing.  If customers, especially those with special needs, have any queries or concerns relating to the work they should ring the Northumbrian Water Customer Centre.

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 customers’ properties 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.

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