24-06-2025
Safe drinking water returns to Pembrokeshire village after six-year wait
A Pembrokeshire community has gained access to clean, reliable mains water.
The residents had relied on bottled water for years due to an unsafe private supply.
The new connection, delivered at no cost to the residents of Barham Road in Trecwn, follows a collaboration between Pembrokeshire County Council's pollution control team, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, and several contractors.
Glyn Jones, a resident of Barham Road, said: "Without doubt, if it wasn't for Pembrokeshire County Council getting involved we could still be drinking water that failed the required standard health test.
"For one I can't thank enough for sticking with us over the last five or so years, diolch to the team."
Residents had relied on bottled water since 2019 after their private supply became discoloured and undrinkable.
Investigations revealed corroded pipes and a collapsed section beneath some homes, prompting warnings of a full system failure and the risk of emergency rehousing.
Pembrokeshire County Council identified a mains connection as the only viable long-term solution.
The project, funded through a successful UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) application by Nathan Miles of the pollution control team, was also supported by a financial contribution from Manhattan Loft (Trecwn) Ltd.
Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water designed the new network, while contractor Young Bros installed the mains and property connections.
PipeworxGB Ltd carried out internal upgrades to meet water regulations.
Penfro Consultancy Limited managed the project from concept to completion.
Jon Murphy from the council's pollution control team led communications, keeping residents informed and ensuring their concerns were heard by Dŵr Cymru and the Drinking Water Inspectorate.
Cllr Jacob Williams, Pembrokeshire County Council's cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: "Access to clean drinking water is a basic necessity, and it's a great shame that this situation persisted for so long.
"However, I'm delighted that thanks to this project, the taps at Barham Road will now run clean once again."
Cllr Delme Harries, the local member for Bro Gwaun, welcomed the news, saying: "This is really positive news for these residents of Barham Road and will see a big improvement to their living standards.
"This project will have a significant impact on the lives of our residents.
"Improved drinking water quality will lead to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life for everyone in our community.
"I want to thank everyone who supported this project to ensure it came to fruition – and to the residents of Barham Road for their patience and co-operation."
The Drinking Water Inspectorate also supported the outcome, stating that a mains connection is the most reliable solution for communities with failing private supplies.
