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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
CRITIC MP Greg Clark at the water station in Pembury during the water shortages
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A Winter Full of Wonder
Water company: ‘We’re so sorry!’
South East Water promises to do all it can to prevent shortages in future By Victoria Roberts At Gorringe’s, our expertise extends across Fine Art, Antiques, Furniture, Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery and more.
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SOUTH East Water (SEW) has apologised to residents in Tunbridge Wells and promised to focus on ‘doing all we can’ to prevent supply issues in the future, after thousands were left without water in the run-up to Christmas. The water company has also now promised compensation for the households affected. Supply issues began during the cold weather snap in mid-December and were exacerbated when the snow and ice thawed, which resulted in burst pipes. Many residents did not have water reinstated until Christmas Day. Around 15,000 customers in Kent and Sussex, including some 3,000 in and around Tunbridge Wells, were affected by the water issues that saw many relying on bottled water and even using snow and rainwater to flush their toilets. Last week, SEW Operations Director
Douglas Whitfield apologised to all those affected. He said: “The few remaining customers who were without water following the bursts and leaks caused by the rapid thawing of snow and ice last week had their supplies restored on December 25. “Now the water network is stable, we are analysing what happened to understand exactly which customers were impacted and for how long.
‘We realise the service we provide our customers has fallen short’ “We understand the impact the loss of water supplies has on local businesses and we are so sorry for any disruption caused.” He said that businesses that had to close due to water supply issues should
claim on their insurance and SEW would work with the insurers to settle any costs. Meanwhile, household customers should receive compensation by the end of January. Mr Whitfield said: “As soon as our analysis of what happened is complete, we will then assess what compensation levels may be applicable in accordance with our Guaranteed Standards of Service. “Compensation payments to eligible customers will then be paid in the New Year. Customers do not need to contact us to be eligible. “We are passionate about providing the best possible service to the communities we supply.” He continued: “We realise the service we provide our customers has fallen short and we will now be focusing on
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Wednesday January 4 | 2023