Investment flowing

13/04/2007

Hundreds of thousands of pounds is being invested to improve the water supply to three thousand properties in Newcastle.

Northumbrian Water is to renew 32 kilometres of water pipes at a cost of £1.7 million in the Wideopen area, starting on Monday April 30.

This work, which will last up to 12 months, will improve water quality 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 Friday April 20, 2007 at Wideopen and North Gosforth Community Association, Daverson Hall, Elmwood Avenue, Woodlands Park, North Gosforth from 2.00pm to 8.00pm.

Ken Rutledge, Northumbrian Water’s Project Manager, said: “The work taking place in Wideopen is essential as the pipes in this area are almost 80 years old and not as reliable as they were.  Plastic pipe will replace the existing cast iron pipe, which is more durable with a longer life expectancy.

“Some of the pipes have furred up which can restrict the flow and reduce the volume and pressure of water in the pipes.  By carrying out this work water quality will be improved and a more robust system will be in place.”

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.