Estate residents warned of bacteria in water

Tests have identified bacteria in the water system of a Cheltenham housing estate, which was built in the 1960s

People living on a housing estate are being told not to drink their tap water after tests found the presence of bacteria.

Dozens of people in Barlow Road in Hester's Way, Cheltenham, are being provided with bottled water while the system is tested.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said there were many vulnerable people living there, adding: "I don't think we are getting the support we should be getting."

Cheltenham Borough Council, which manages the homes, said immediate action had been taken and residents in the affected properties had been issued with advice and assistance.

"As part of this, our officers have been door knocking, talking directly to tenants, providing advice and carrying out welfare checks," a council spokesperson said.

"'We understand this will be concerning for tenants and we urge them to talk to us if they have any specific questions at this stage, or to seek medical advice if they feel unwell."

A letter was sent to affected properties on Friday explaining bacteria had been found and advising people not to drink tap water or use it to brush their teeth.

Tenants were also advised to avoid letting water enter their mouths when washing or having a shower.

The letter, which has been seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, says the council is trying to find its source and establish the extent of the issue.

As a precaution, it is testing all of its properties over the next few days.

The letter also says it is prioritising properties where people may be at higher risk or where they have identified issues with the water supply.

The council could not give a definitive timescale for solving the issue.

People living in Barlow Road can not drink their tap water

The resident said there were about 60 people living in the affected area, adding: "We are vulnerable residents. The way I'm feeling I'm all for walking out of the flat and go to a hotel or something.

"I'm not getting assurances."

Cheltenham Borough Council said: "We are continuing to work with our partner agencies including public health, contractors and Severn Trent to understand next steps.

"Our team of officers remain on site today and across the bank holiday weekend to continue welfare checks and ensure tenants are updated at every stage."

Severn Trent said it was assisting with the ongoing investigation.