Thames Water admit responsibility for Turn Pike House incident over Christmas (Islington Liberal Democrats)

Islington Liberal Democrats <Islington_ld@cix.co.uk>

Thames Water admit responsibility for Turn Pike House incident over Christmas

September 30, 2004 10:04 AM

In a presentation to South Area Committee last night Thames Water took on full responsibility for the suffering of residents in Turn Pike House who were left without water over the Christmas period last year.

The presentation is part of a water scrutiny being held by Islington Council into water supply and water management in the borough. The Liberal Democrat council arranged for residents to come and represent their views to Thames Water.

Councillor Jyoti Vaga said that "At the time of the incident residents were told that the councils services were at fault. Thames Water failed to respond to residents needs and the time they were left waiting for an alternative water supply was outrageous. It was good to hear Thames Water openly admit their responsibility.

What the council is trying to do now is ensure that changes to the water supply, and planned works will be done in a way that is least disruptive for residents."

When the problem arose Thames Water's call centre categorically denied responsibility, at last nights meeting they told residents that they had failed to notice the problem a newly installed water meter was causing until it became crucial. While admitting that they failed to respond to concerns of the residents the representatives could not reassure those present that procedures were in place to stop similar incidents in the future.

During the presentation Thames Water talked about the condition of the sewers and mains pipes in London, admitting that half were over 100 years old. Because of this keeping pressure high is causing burst water pipes and leakages, a particular problem in north London. However cutting pressure to stop these incidents will mean that many buildings will have to install supply boosters at a cost of £30,000.

Councillor George Allan said that "After years of neglect and under investment Thames Water are now pushing the cost of solving this problem onto the council and residents. "The Association of London Government are currently negotiating with Thames Water for a contribution to these costs. According to the ALG the cost to London Boroughs if pressure drops to 10 meters is £246 million. Figures suggest that it is the poorest boroughs in London that will face the biggest costs when water pressure decreases.