Water Supply Issues Due to Burst Main
Efforts to restore water supplies to properties in Oxfordshire have been delayed due to air pockets trapped in the water pipes after a burst main. At least 12 schools and thousands of homes in the OX7, OX18, OX28, OX29, and GL7 postcodes have experienced no water or low water pressure since the pipe burst earlier this week on Oxford Road at Eynsham.
Thames Water’s Ongoing Repair Efforts
Thames Water confirmed that the pipe had been repaired on Thursday evening, and work was ongoing to refill the network. However, trapped air pockets, particularly in higher sections of the network, have caused issues in restoring normal pressure. The company is actively working to flush out the air pockets and manage water flows to help return pressure to normal.
Air Pockets and Slow Recovery
The air pockets formed when the water main burst and pressure dropped suddenly, allowing air to enter the system. Thames Water explained that it could take some time to remove the trapped air, but it was vital to restoring normal pressure. Some customers may still experience low water pressure or no water while the system continues to recover.
Bottled Water Stations Open for Residents
Bottled water stations have remained open at locations like Sainsbury’s in Witney and Morrisons in Carterton. Residents have been urged to be patient as the water supply gradually returns to normal. Thames Water added that the water may appear discoloured when it first comes through the taps but should clear within two to three hours.
Schools Affected by Water Shortages
Due to the disruption, at least a dozen schools, including those in Burford, Carterton, and Witney, had to close. Thames Water confirmed that additional staff had been brought in to help with the repairs, and special measures were taken to ensure hospitals remained supplied with water.
Challenges with Excavation
The company also explained that reaching the burst pipe for repairs had been more challenging than initially expected, largely due to excessive groundwater. Thames Water thanked customers for their patience and assured them that efforts to resolve the issue were ongoing.
Support for Vulnerable Residents
Residents who need extra assistance due to the water supply disruption are encouraged to sign up for Thames Water’s priority services register. Friends, family, or carers can also register on behalf of someone who may require additional support during this time.
At Newtech Pipes, we understand how vital it is to maintain and repair water systems promptly to ensure consistent supply and pressure. We’re committed to supporting our communities by addressing similar challenges with swift, effective solutions.
Source By BBC
