Thousands affected following burst water pipe near Plymouth

Schools and businesses shut

Multiple schools in a part of Devon have been forced to close because of ongoing water supply issues around Plymouth. 

Tens of thousands of people are experiencing no water or low pressure following a burst pipe on Monday 21 April. South West Water said that burst main had been fixed but work was needed to 'carefully recharging the network'.

Residents and businesses in Tavistock, Yelverton and Bere Alston are affected and water bottle stations are in place for people affected. 

The utility company have apologised and issued a statement: 'We are carefully recharging the network to be able to fully restore supply to our customers. This is a large and complex system, and it needs to refill properly and safely before we can bring it fully back into supply. That’s why it may take a bit more time for all customers to see their water return.

'Our absolute priority is getting supplies back to everyone as quickly as we can, and we want to thank customers for their continued patience and understanding.

We’ve prioritised support for our most vulnerable customers throughout and will continue to provide bottled water where it’s needed. Several bottled water stations remain open in the area for anyone who needs them while the system refills.' 

Labour MP for Plymouth Moor View, Fred Thomas said: “Residents deserve clear answers, urgent action, and proper support. I’ve written to South West Water demanding an immediate timeline for when water will return, more bottled water stations, confirmation that vulnerable households are being looked after, and details of compensation.”

“The bottled water provision so far has been totally inadequate. Families can’t wait in traffic queues in the middle of a working day. We urgently need more sites opened today.”

“The last thing people in Plymouth should be worrying about is where their next glass of water is coming from. South West Water need to step up - and fast.” 

VIDEO COURTESY: BBC SPOTLIGHT