Water leaks which further delayed town streetworks are now fixed

A water leak which added a further delay to behind-schedule streetworks in a Rossendale town has been repaired, authorities say.

Water company United Utilities has fixed the problem in Haslingden, which impacted on road and pavement work around Deardengate in recent weeks. The company had dealt with one leak there in mid-February but then had to tackle another.

Rossendale Council said it is pleased the problem has been fixed ‘after sustained phone calls and pushing’ to United Utilities for repairs over three weeks.

Haslingden shop owners and drivers have faced months of upheaval caused by rolling phases of work around Deardengate. The work is improve the town centre’s environment including pedestrianising the historic  ‘Big Lamp’ area at the top of Deardengate.  But one councillor, Samara Barnes, said she shared the public’s frustration with the various delays and the water leaks. 

A United Utilities spokesperson said a crew first attended the Deardengate area in mid-February to fixed water one leak but then had to investigate reports of a further leak. Following that, the second leak was repaired.

A Rossendale Council spokesperson said: “We’re pleased that progress has now finally been made by United Utilities to resolve the recent water leak in Haslingden, following sustained phone calls and pushing by our contractor to get the issue addressed.

“We are continuing to work closely with partners to ensure the town centre improvements progress smoothly. Works will restart shortly, with the project continuing to deliver a range of enhancements that are already transforming the space for residents, businesses and visitors.”

 “A number of positive elements are coming forward, including the careful saving and re-use of the historic cobbles, the creation of a safer and more accessible environment underfoot, and the reinstatement of the town’s much-loved ‘Big Lamp’ as a key heritage feature.

“The scheme will also introduce new public artwork, including the shuttle installation celebrating Haslingden’s textile heritage, alongside improved spaces designed for people to spend time, meet, relax and enjoy the town centre.

“Following completion of the current phase, the project will move into landscaping works, which will be carried out without the need for further road closures.”

The spokesperson added:  “Overall, the development has been carefully designed to create a safer, more welcoming and vibrant town centre to support local events, encourage footfall and provide attractive spaces for the community to use.

“In the meantime, Haslingden is very much open for visitors and shoppers, with pavements fully accessible, high street access up to Haslingden Library for vehicles, and new artwork taking shape. We will continue to keep residents and businesses updated.”