Massive water pipe burst in Kirkholt

There was a burst on a large 12" diameter water pipe on Tuesday (8 May) night at about 11.30pm. This pipe feeds most of the Kirkholt estate and residents water supply was affected.

A United Utilities engineer was quickly on the scene, and set about identifying exactly which pipe had burst and where it could be turned off to stop the flooding while minimising the impact on water supplies. He was able to re-route water supplies using other mains in the area and all water was back on by 5am Wednesday (9 May).

The pipe is damaged in an awkward location, close to the motorway embankment.

Yesterday (Thursday 10 May) United Utilities brought equipment as close to the site as they can get and the digging and repairs were being done by hand. A further clean up of silt and mud that is needed will also be carried out.

Helen Wilson of United Utilities said: “We’re very sorry about what has happened. Bursts on pipes this size are rare, and our engineers responded quickly to stem the flow and get supplies back on for people as soon as possible.”