United Utilities responds after water flooded 8 gardens over 12 hours
Residents on Ainsworth Avenue in Horwich watched nervously as the water in the gardens rose – hoping it wouldn't come into their homes.
(Image: Cllr Moncado-Sears)
Cllr Charlotte Moncado-Sears, of Horwich north, said she was "shocked" when she saw the photos of water pooling.
According to her, eight properties were affected by the leak which wasn't repaired until nearly 12 hours after starting.
She said: "A resident contacted me at 5.15pm regarding a leak in her back garden that was reported to United Utilities at around 8am.
"I asked the resident for a photo and was shocked at the amount of water pooling.
"I attended the property and spoke to the residents, it soon became apparent that there were eight properties affected so I contacted United Utilities myself.
Have a story? Get in touch at eoin.mccaul@newsquest.co.uk
"I shared some photos/videos and within two hours they were on site rectifying the leak."
United Utilities, the company in charge of the water pipes, confirmed this morning (July 3) that the leak had been fixed overnight.
They said that the location of the leak complicated repairs because they needed to get permission from the homeowner and their neighbour to remove some of the fence to access the pipe.
READ MORE: Households to receive up to £2,000 compensation for water service failures
READ MORE: United Utilities warn over water levels in the region
READ MORE: United Utilities bonuses banned after Bolton fish killed
READ MORE: Back garden transformed into swimming pool after burst water pipe
A United Utilities spokesperson said: "We received reports of a leak on Ainsworth Avenue, Horwich on 2 July and a leakage technician was sent to assess the problem.
"Unfortunately, the location of the leak made the job less straightforward, and it was necessary to get the appropriate written permissions from both the customer and the adjoining property to remove some fence panels and dig down to isolate the water and fix the pipe.
"The leak was repaired overnight, and we are grateful to the customer for their patience and understanding."
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