Cold snap hits water companies

The current cold snap affecting most of the UK will have a significant impact on the water industry. In the short term it’s the logistical problems of getting around and maintaining operation in sub zero temperatures. Longer term the problems will come from the thaw – when pipes burst and damage to buried mains from frozen ground will emerge. With luck the snow covering will have helped to insulate the ground buts its inevitable that water leakage will increase.

The cold snap has coincided with the introduction of an innovative scheme by the Mayor of London. From today gas, electricity and water companies must buy a permit if they want to dig up the streets in a pioneering new scheme to reduce traffic congestion.

The permits cost £240 and tough fines of up to £2500 will be impose if the strict conditions are broken. The aim – to reduce the number and duration of road works and to reduce traffic congestion – must be applauded. This is a first step as it does not as yet prioritse the busiest roads. It may also lead to higher costs for consumers unless utilities are able to be clever in sharing trenches.