Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions she has had with representatives of water companies on steps to make members of the public aware of the timing of water works.

This is a devolved issue and the information provided relates to England only.
Repairing and replacing leaking pipes is critical to maintaining a clean, safe and relia-ble supply of drinking water to homes and businesses.

It is for companies to decide how to maintain their infrastructure. Information on com-panies’ works is normally available on companies’ website, including details of the work and expected timescales.

However, water companies in England, along with all utility companies, are required to apply for a permit from the relevant highway authority before planned works can begin, and within 2 hours of being on site for emergency works. This allows the au-thority to coordinate all works and minimise disruption to the public.

Information on live and planned works is now streamed real-time through the DfT’s Street Manager digital service.