Thames Water Issues Warning of Potential ‘Fast Flooding’ Threat to 37,000 London Basement Homes
Thames Water, Britain’s largest water and sewage company, has acknowledged that a significant portion of its £19 billion in assets, including pipes, are in a state of disrepair.
According to a document on asset health deficits posted online, Thames Water has identified 37,545 basement properties in London that are at risk of rapid flooding due to their proximity to aging water trunk mains. The company also states that its aging infrastructure poses a risk to public safety, water supply, and the environment.
The document reveals that much of Thames Water’s assets, such as water pipes, sewers, and sewage works, are in poor or failed condition and are no longer capable of functioning reliably. The company has seen a 70% increase in bursts of sewage mains over the past seven years due to these assets reaching the end of their estimated serviceable life.
In response to financial struggles, Ofwat, the water sector regulator, has given Thames Water until June 12 to secure the necessary investment to stay afloat. The company has proposed increasing household bills in London and the southeast by 59% and is awaiting a draft decision on its business plan from Ofwat on July 11. Thames Water also plans to upgrade four large water processing plants in London to address risks associated with cryptosporidium oocysts in drinking water.
Challenges and Proposed Solutions
Thames Water acknowledges significant asset health challenges that need to be addressed to ensure public safety, water supply, and environmental protection. The company plans to implement targeted capital maintenance interventions to mitigate serious risks, at an estimated cost of £1,905 million.
In light of concerns about water quality and sewage issues in rivers and seas, Thames Water has stressed the importance of breaking the cycle of asset sweating and urgently addressing infrastructure deficiencies. Feargal Sharkey, a water quality campaigner, has attributed these issues to greed, profiteering, and regulatory demands.
Looking ahead, Thames Water aims to deliver a program of maintenance interventions, despite the significant financial investment required. The company is committed to improving asset health and ensuring a sustainable water supply for the future.
