Hundreds of householders in housing association flats on the Devons Road estate in Tower Hamlets have been without a reliable water supply for up to a year. Residents have reported difficulties with washing, cleaning their homes, and cooking, with some unable to flush toilets for long stretches each day.
Beatrice Asante, a resident, described finding no water on Christmas Day and still cannot rely on tap water seven months later. Other residents, including mothers Rajia Begum and Jasmine Begum, often only get running water in the middle of the night, forcing them to do daily tasks after 1 am.
Poplar Harca, the landlord, stated it recognised the disruption and frustration caused by intermittent low water pressure. The landlord confirmed it had been working with Thames Water since December to investigate the issue. Poplar Harca added that it did not need to pursue an emergency route for repairs, requiring a statutory consultation process with leaseholders before major works.
A spokesperson for Tower Hamlets council acknowledged the disruption and inconvenience. The council stated it is working with Poplar Harca to escalate residents' concerns and ensure support, including bottled water and provisions for vulnerable residents.