However, the Inspectorate has identified that a more extensive programme is required for PAH and is in the process of finalising a commitment from the Company to do this work. The graph above shows the continued good water quality over the past five years. The Company, as it must, plans to improve the quality even further. It has given legally binding commitments to take steps to remove pesticides, minimise problems with lead and improve its water mains. Traces of pesticides can be present in the raw water source and the Company is installing treatment to remove them where appropriate.
Lead arises largely because water picks up lead from consumers' lead pipes.
The Company has installed treatment to reduce this tendency. Iron and PAH arise from old water mains and the Company is replacing or repairing these. Most of these improvements were completed by December 1995 and their full effect should be seen in the 1996 results. Work on the water mains and some pesticides treatment plants is continuing. If you want more detailed information about the quality of drinking water in your local area please contact the Company.