The village of Harwood in Bolton faced significant flooding due to a burst water main early on Friday, March 20, 2026. Residents described the streets as resembling fast-flowing rivers after the incident. The flooding occurred just as United Utilities was performing pipe installation work in the Longsight Lane area.
Significant Flooding Event in Harwood
On the morning of March 20, local residents awoke to find their roads inundated with water. The burst pipe caused widespread loss of water supply and low pressure in the area. A resident, Jack Gill, described the scene, stating, “The water was flowing for hundreds of metres either way, like a river.”
Impact on Residents
- Residents experienced loss of water supply or discolored water.
- Many were concerned about potential flooding in their homes and gardens.
- Local video footage captured the extent of the flooding, showcasing water cascading down Hough Fold Way.
Another resident expressed disbelief at the amount of water released, saying, “It’s hard to believe there could be that much water under the estate.” Despite the dry weather, this flooding presented a stark contradiction to the season.
Response from United Utilities
In response to the incident, United Utilities deployed water on wheels tankers to replenish supplies. They sourced water from other areas to restore service to affected customers. A spokesperson from United Utilities acknowledged the disruption and expressed gratitude for residents’ patience during repairs.
Future Repairs and Community Concerns
Excavation work on Longsight Lane, where the contractors have been active for over a week, is expected to prolong the repair timeline. Residents were informed that full restoration of services may take additional time.
This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in infrastructure and the impact such events can have on communities. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided by United Utilities.
