Updated: Major Water Incident in Conwy
16/01/2025 at 11pm
Overview
A significant water disruption continues to affect the Conwy region due to a burst water main at the Bryn Cowlyd Water Treatment Works in Dolgarrog. This complex issue has left over 30,000 households without water, with an additional 17,000 at risk of losing supply overnight. Repairs are progressing but are challenging due to the water main being located 2.5 meters beneath a riverbed (see Dwr Cymru website for further information on the pipe).
Key Updates
- Repair Progress:
- The repair site has been secured, and work is expected to begin tomorrow morning.
- Restoration of water supply may take up to 48 hours after repairs are complete, depending on the re-filling of the network.
- Support for Affected Residents:
- Dŵr Cymru’s Priority Services Register: Approximately 5,000 vulnerable customers are being prioritised for bottled water deliveries via Dŵr Cymru’s priority list. If you need adding to this list contact Dŵr Cymru directly – 0800 085 3968
- CCBC: We are working through our own clients in need to prioritise what we have available.
- Care Homes and Hospitals: Tankers are maintaining supplies for hospitals, and water has been distributed to care homes.
- Water Stations: We are hoping to open water stations tomorrow with locations to be confirmed.
- Customer Guidance:
- If water is still flowing from your taps, it is safe to drink.
- Central heating systems can be used but may need refilling.
- Garden water butts can be used to fill toilet cisterns for flushing.
- Please help us by checking on the elderly or vulnerable near you.
- Accountability:
- Numerous residents have been in touch about the text service, communication etc. Authorities will review communication and logistics issues once immediate needs are met.
Actions for Residents
- Priority Services Register: Vulnerable individuals should ensure they are registered and contact Dŵr Cymru or the local authority if they are vulnerable and haven’t received assistance.
- Housing Association Tenants: Cartrefi, Adra, North Wales Housing, Clwyd Alyn, Wales and West, Grwp Cynefin tenants should reach out to their housing association directly for support.
- Bottled Water: Check updates tomorrow for the locations of bottled water stations.
- Alternative Water Use: Follow the advice to safely use any available water for non-drinking purposes.
The Immediate Priorities
- Ensuring water is delivered to vulnerable people and critical facilities such as hospitals and care homes.
- Expanding access to bottled water stations and drop-offs for impacted areas.
- Completing the repair work as swiftly and safely as possible.
Conclusion
Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Conwy County Borough Council, and other agencies are working tirelessly to resolve the situation. Updates will be shared regularly as progress is made. Residents are encouraged to remain informed and reach out for assistance if needed.