The future's water

24/10/2006

Work to safeguard the water supply for future generations is to begin in North Tyneside.

Northumbrian Water is to renew 20 kilometres of water pipes, which supplies around 3,000 properties in Whitley Bay, at a cost of £700,000.

The improvement work, which will begin on Monday November 13 and last up to seven months, will improve water quality and safeguard water supplies for the future.

Customers are invited to find out more about the work and raise any questions or concerns at a drop-in customer information session on Thursday October 26, 2006 at Southridge First School, Beaumont Park Estate, Whitley Bay, from 2.00pm to 8.00pm.

Ken Rutledge, Northumbrian Water’s Project Manager, said: “The work taking place in Whitley Bay is essential improvement work and technology will be used, where possible, which avoids digging open trenches.  Plastic pipe will replace the existing cast iron main, which is more durable with a longer life expectancy – a new pipe has a life expectancy of 100 years, and an existing relined pipe has a 70 year life expectancy.

“Water is something we all take for granted, but is vital for life – think how many times you have already used it today!”

Customers affected will have received further information and advice in writing.  If customers, especially those with special needs, have any queries or concerns 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.

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 please contact Carolyn King on 0191 301 6722.