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Creating a more resilient water supply

Read on to find out what this means for you and how we’re strengthening our network so we can continue to deliver safe, clean and dependable water – now and for the future.

Our region’s water comes from reservoirs, aqueducts, lakes and rivers all delivered through a vast network of over 43,000 kilometres (around 26,000 miles) of pipes. Whilst we work 24/7 to keep your water flowing, some older pipes are more prone to bursts, which can cause supply interruptions.

As part of a UK wide improvement programme, we’re replacing over 925 kilometres (574 miles) of pipes across the North West with modern, more resilient ones. This will help reduce leaks and bursts and strengthen the network to meet growing demand.

Before any work begins, you might see us in your area, carrying out early investigations, checking ground conditions, locating underground utilities and installing new valves or equipment to support the upgrade.

We know this work can sometimes be disruptive and our teams will do everything they can to keep inconvenience to a minimum.

  • As part of our upgrade work, we’ll need to turn off your water supply for short periods - usually just a few hours at a time. This may happen more than once as we replace the pipes in sections.

    We understand this can be inconvenient, so we’ll make sure any planned interruptions happen outside of key busy times, giving you chance to shower, make breakfast and get everyone out the door. You’ll always be given written notice in advance, with clear details of the date and time.

    When it’s time to connect your home or business to the new pipe, the water will only be off briefly - normally around 10 minutes. A member of our site team will let you know when this is about to happen.

    After the work is complete, you might notice your tap water looks slightly discoloured. This is temporary and nothing to worry about and it will clear quickly. If it does happen, we’ve got a simple guide to help you get things back to normal.

  • We understand roadworks can be frustrating, but many of the old water pipes we’re replacing are located beneath roads. To carry out this essential work safely, we’ll need to put temporary traffic management in place.

    This may involve lane closures or temporary traffic lights and, in some cases, full road closures may be necessary. Wherever possible and as long as it’s safe, we’ll maintain access to homes and businesses. However, if you usually park on the road, we may ask you to temporarily move your vehicle so our teams can work.

    We’ll do everything we can to minimise disruption and keep you informed throughout the project.

  • We work in phases to install new, modern water pipes and the method we use will depend on the condition and material of the existing pipes, along with other site-specific factors.

    Here are the two main ways we carry out this work:

    • Sliplining: This involves inserting a new, durable pipe inside the existing water main. It’s less disruptive because fewer holes need to be dug. Our teams will excavate at key points and carefully feed the new pipe through, then connect the sections together.

    • Open-cut replacement: In some cases, we’ll remove sections of the old pipe and lay entirely new ones. This method requires digging a continuous trench, so it may cause more disruption locally.

    To carry out this work safely and efficiently, we use specialist equipment that may generate some noise and vibration. We’ll also set up temporary areas nearby for machinery, materials and welfare facilities for our teams.

  • Our site team is always happy to help with any questions you may have.

    You can also get in touch with us through our online feedback form, social media channels, or by calling us on 0345 672 3723 - we’re here to help.

    If you do contact us, please include the project number shown on your letter or notification card. This helps our customer advisors direct your query to the right team quickly and efficiently.

    Thank you for your patience as we upgrade your water network.