Environmental problems Water

Water pollution / quality

Water pollution can cause many problems, drinking water can become contaminated that can affect health and can also change the colour or odour of the water.

United Utilities are responsible for providing drinking water that is safe to drink and complies with water quality standards. The Drinking Water Inspectorate are an independent body responsible for assessing the quality of our drinking water and, when necessary, taking enforcement action should the water be found unfit for human consumption.  

Pollution that affects public open waters such as canals, rivers and ponds are dealt with by the Environment Agency. The most common problem are reports of (Blue Green) Algae in lakes and ponds which are dealt with by the Environment Agency. 

What you can do

  • you should contact United Utilities if you have concerns about drinking water quality and ask for your water to be tested;
  • although not all algae are toxic, you should report any incidents to the Environment Agency and they will investigate. 

We are responsible for algae occurring on land owned by us e.g. public parks and will erect signs warning users and restricting access where appropriate.

Water quality leaflets

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