Companies defend flushing water mains in drought-hit areas

Drought-hit water companies have been forced to defend flushing out mains while customers face imminent restrictions, following an investigation by the Sun.

The Sun published pictures of water gushing down the street as operatives worked at night and questioned whether it was necessary. It quoted Bristol Water’s website, which says the company would curtail flushing activity if it were short of water.

Water companies routinely pump water at high pressure through mains to flush out sediments and rust deposits.

A spokesperson for the Consumer Council for Water said flushing was important for maintaining quality but it was vitally important for companies to explain what they were doing and keep customer goodwill.

Thames Water sustainability director Richard Aylard said companies were looking into ways to recycle water used for flushing so it didn’t run down the drain.