ALMOST two miles of old and leaky water pipes in Quendon and Saffron Walden will be replaced in work starting this week. The �670,000 project being carried out by Veolia Water Three Valleys is expected to take up to six weeks and be finished before Christ

ALMOST two miles of old and leaky water pipes in Quendon and Saffron Walden will be replaced in work starting this week.

The �670,000 project being carried out by Veolia Water Three Valleys is expected to take up to six weeks and be finished before Christmas.

Water mains will be replaced in Brick Kiln Lane, Quendon, and in Walden Road and Radwinter Road, Saffron Walden.

Cabinet member for highways & transportation at Essex County Council, Cllr Roger Walters, said: "We are working closely with Veolia Water to minimise any inconvenience to residents while this work is taking place."

Project Manager Tadas Buividas said: "Tackling leakage is one of our top priorities, and we're committed to replacing 632 kilometres (393miles) of ageing pipes before next spring.

"This important work will not only boost our efforts to reach that target, helping us to save thousands of litres of water, but will greatly reduce the chance of pipes cracking and bursting unexpectedly, which we know can cause disruption to our customers.

"The new pipes are made of a special type of durable plastic which is more flexible than traditional metal water pipes so they will last longer."

Vulnerable and elderly customers who may have concerns about the work are encouraged to contact the water company on 0845 782 3333 or visit the website at www.veoliawater.co.uk/tv.