Five homes on Mere Road in Waltham on the Wolds have been without running water for 11 days after a nearby pipe leak on 21 July. The outage has made hygiene and hydration difficult for residents, including Michael, who is receiving chemotherapy. Neighbours report only bottled water and inconsistent communication while Severn Trent Water and Melton Borough Council say the leak has been located and repairs are in progress.
11 Days Without Water on Mere Road: Chemotherapy Patient Struggles as Repairs Continue
Amy Cox said not having water was "frustrating and distressing" [BBC]
Residents of five homes on Mere Road in Waltham on the Wolds, Leicestershire, have endured 11 days without running water after a nearby pipe leaked on 21 July. The outage has caused significant disruption for households on the street while Severn Trent Water and Melton Borough Council work to repair the fault.
Amy Cox, 39, said her father, Michael, who is undergoing chemotherapy, has found it increasingly difficult to maintain the hygiene and sterile environment required during treatment. Cox described having to take her father to her own home for baths and to wash her parents' clothes because their supply was cut off.
John Barkworth is also waiting for water to return to his property [BBC]
"We have got to keep him clean, we've got to keep him hydrated," Cox said. "The medication he's on dehydrates him so we need cool flowing water that's a constant and it's just not available."
Other neighbours reported practical and health concerns. John Barkworth said his son relies on medical care at home and that, without running water, he believes his son would be better off in hospital. Residents also described difficulties flushing toilets, unpleasant odours, and increased insect activity around drains.
Cox and neighbours said communication and support have been inconsistent: they received bottled water but felt caught between Severn Trent and the council when seeking assistance. Severn Trent Water has confirmed the leak's location and said it is working with Melton Borough Council and contractors to resolve the problem as a priority. The council said officers remain in regular contact with affected households and are providing support where needed.
"We recognise the significant impact this issue is having on those affected and resolving it as quickly as possible remains a priority," a Melton Borough Council spokesperson said.
Authorities did not give an exact timetable for full restoration, but both organisations said repairs were underway and being prioritised for the vulnerable households affected.
Help us improve.
