Flow to the future

25/05/2006

Work is to be carried out to ensure the water supply in Tynedale is safeguarded for the next century.

Northumbrian Water is to upgrade 33 kilometres of water main, which supplies customers in Allerwash, Brokenheugh, Chesterwood, Fourstones, Hard Riding, Haydon Bridge, Henshaw, Newbrough, Thorngrafton, Westwood and surrounding areas.

The £3 million scheme, which will begin on Monday May 30, will last for 12 months.

Project manager for the scheme, Richard Johnston, said:  “Some of the water mains supplying this area are up to a century old.  Over time some of the water pipes have furred up and, although not harmful to health, this can restrict the flow and reduce the volume and pressure of water in the pipes.  Old pipes can also lead to harmless discoloured water when sediment is disturbed.

“This improvement work will ensure the high quality of water supplied to around 3000 properties will be maintained for decades to come.”

Customers affected will receive 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 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 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.

For further peace of mind customers can also register a password – if anyone from the water company needs to access a registered customer’s home they will know the password.  They should either ring the customer centre or log onto www.nwl.co.uk to register.

For further information contact Cara Hall on 0191 301 6720.