Improvement scheme in the Longbenton area

A £3.5 million water mains improvement programme begins in Newcastle upon Tyne today. (19th June 2006).

Northumbrian Water is to upgrade 50 kilometres of water main in Longbenton.  The work, which will take up to 18 months to complete, will directly improve water supplies to around 10,000 properties.

This work is essential to ensure excellent quality tap water continues to reach customers’ taps.  Each person in Northumbrian Water’s supply area, including residents in Longbenton, uses on average 150 litres of water every day – around 15 buckets.

Dave Ingle, Northumbrian Water’s project manager for the scheme, said:  “Water is something we all use and take for granted.  The work in Longbenton is essential to ensure a high quality tap water continues to reach thousands of customers’ taps.

“Some of the water pipes in Longbenton are up to 60 years old.  Over time pipes fur up and, although not harmful to health, this can restrict the flow and reduce the volume of pressure of water in the pipes.  Old pipes can also lead to harmless discoloured water when sediment is disturbed.”

Customers will receive further information and advice in writing.  If anyone has any special needs, questions or concerns about the work they should ring Northumbrian Water on 0845 717 1100.

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 Northumbrian Water to confirm the caller’s identity.