Key Highlights
- Anglian Water to investigate long-term solutions for water leak issues in Freeman Street, Grimsby.
- Councillors request a borough-wide review of the condition of underground networks.
- A third water leak occurred on Tuesday, October 28, following previous incidents in May and last October.
- Residents and traders have experienced widespread disruption due to frequent leaks.
Anglian Water Faces Pressure for Long-Term Solutions Amid Frequent Leaks
In response to persistent water leak issues in Freeman Street, Grimsby, Anglian Water has announced plans to investigate potential long-term solutions. This move comes after the third significant leak this year occurred on Tuesday, October 28.
Call for Broader Review and Investment Plan
The pressure on Anglian Water intensified when East Marsh Ward councillors wrote to the company’s chief executive last week. Councillors Nicola Aisthorpe, Steve Beasant, and Loyd Emmerson (all Liberal Democrat) called for a borough-wide review of the condition of underground networks. They highlighted “repeated failures” in Columbia Road, Hildyard Street, and Roberts Street as well.
According to the councillors’ letter dated October 29, these incidents have caused widespread disruption, flooding, and loss of confidence among local residents and traders. The trio requested a meeting with Anglian Water and outlined specific demands:
- A borough-wide review of the condition of underground networks.
- An investment plan to replace oldest and most vulnerable pipework in East Marsh.
- Regular public updates on leaks, repair times, and infrastructure upgrades to restore public confidence.
Anglian Water’s Response
In a statement, an Anglian Water spokesperson acknowledged the latest leak on Freeman Street: “We’re sorry for any disruption on Freeman Street in Grimsby while our engineers fix a burst water main. Although customers’ water supply should not be affected, we have needed to close a small section of Freeman Street to keep everyone safe.” The company emphasized that this is not the first time they’ve had a leak and are investigating potential long-term solutions.
Anglian Water’s financial performance was also brought into question by Cllr Aisthorpe. She stated, “Water is one of the most basic services people rely on, yet our streets are being left flooded and our roads repeatedly dug up because the network isn’t fit for purpose.” Additionally, Cllr Beasant highlighted visible signs of old infrastructure: “The section of pipe being removed was cracked, corroded, and decades past its life span.”
Call for Leadership and Commitment
The councillors are now in discussions with Anglian Water to press for a credible long-term plan. Cllr Emmerson stated, “This is an opportunity for Anglian Water to show genuine leadership and commitment to the communities it serves.” The trio also noted that North East Lincolnshire Council has issued three separate Section 81 legal notices this year for urgent repairs in East Marsh Ward alone.
The councillors remain committed to pressing on the issue until residents see lasting improvements, not just investigations. Their ongoing efforts reflect the broader challenge of infrastructure investment and maintenance faced by water companies across the UK.
