Scottish Water making progress in tracing leaks across local network

SCOTTISH Water says its teams have been making progress with tracing, isolating and repairing leaks on the water networks across Shetland.

The flow from the islands’ water treatment works remains significantly higher than normal as a result of the impact of the recent weather conditions, and Scottish Water recently asked for help in tracing any leaks or bursts.

While the issue is not currently affecting water supply to customers, Scottish Water said it is important for flows to be returned to sustainable levels to ensure this remains the case.

A team worked in challenging conditions in Fetlar yesterday (Tuesday) to locate and repair leaks, with further work planned for tomorrow (Thursday).

In the meantime, Fetlar’s water network is being isolated overnight to allow water storage on the island to recover and maintain daytime supply to customers.

Work is underway today in Whalsay, and the network in Unst is being actively monitored following progress made there on Monday.

Scottish Water is continuing to ask customers right across Shetland to check any empty properties, business premises, holiday homes, basements, out-houses, field troughs or garden taps for burst pipes or leaks.

A spokesperson for Scottish Water said: “We are very grateful to customers who have already responded to our appeal for help locating leaks in empty properties.

“The great majority of issues we are finding are on the supply pipes and plumbing that serves homes, businesses, community buildings and field troughs. Locating and addressing leaks quickly will minimise damage and help us in maintaining water supplies for everyone.

“We are continuing to target our resources in the areas that are experiencing the highest flows. The support of customers, communities and our emergency response partners has made a big difference in recent days – but we would ask for continuing focus on any empty buildings.”

Where customers become aware of leaks or bursts, they are asked to contact Scottish Water with as much detail of the location as possible. Issues can be reported by calling 0800 077 8778 or via the online reporting portal on Scottish Water’s website.