Water firm causes a hole lot of trouble (From Warrington Guardian)

Water firm causes a hole lot of trouble

AN Appleton man has slammed Warrington-based water providers after workers dug a hole, blocking his driveway and trapping him at home.

United Utilities in Great Sankey found itself in hot water last Wednesday when Debroy Parrington discovered a hole obstructed access to the driveway of his home. He was unable to get his car out and he was forced to stay in his home all day.

To make matters worse, the residents of the London Road address were not informed that work was due to begin.

Mr Parrington said: "It's a huge inconvenience to my family. The hole has totally restricted getting our cars on and off the drive.

"It's dangerous - I had to tell my daughter not to come around because I was concerned my young granddaughter may get injured. It's a disgrace that we were not told."

When Mr Parrington complained to the water company, he was told that there was no record of development taking place around Appleton.

According to United Utilities, its policy ensures all residents are informed of forthcoming maintenance work in their area, to prevent situations such as this occurring.

Mark Donahue, spokesman for United Utilities, said: "The Parringtons should have been told by letter about the installation of new water pipes in Stockton Heath.

"If they didn't get a letter, we sincerely apologise and will endeavour to find out why."

The construction work on London Road is the final phase of a £1.3 million project by United Utilities to replace Victorian cast iron pipes with 32km of blue plastic water mains.

The work, due to finish in August, should improve the quality of drinking water in 1,300 homes.