Scholar Green School shuts for water safety checks

There have been ongoing issues with water supply in Scholar Green, residents say (generic pic)

A school has closed for a second day over concerns about water quality.

Scholar Green Primary School, in Cheshire, said it had been told by United Utilities the water cannot be used for anything other than flushing toilets.

The water company said investigations were continuing, including whether there was an issue with the school's pipework.

The school shut on Monday, and remained closed on Tuesday.

In a message to parents on Facebook on Monday, the school said it had been advised the condition of the water was not suitable for cleaning, washing, cooking, drinking or any sanitary use.

It said due to the health and safety implications of having no water, it was unfortunately going to have to close with immediate effect.

Parent Michelle Dundas said it was concerning.

She said children had been advised several times to take extra drinks bottles in, and then on Monday parents got a call to collect their children.

'Private pipework'

There had been ongoing problems with water supply and quality in Scholar Green, she said.

"Some houses are without supply on a really regular basis, some houses seem largely unaffected.

"But the worry is, we're not getting that clear message from the utility company. No-one is checking our water in the houses, we are assuming it is safe to drink."

A spokesperson for United Utilities said: "We apologise for any loss of water supply while we repaired bursts in the Congleton area recently. We would like to reassure customers that their water continues to meet the high quality standards set out by the Drinking Water Inspectorate."

The water firm said the issue at Scholar Green Primary School was separate and investigations continue.

"We are helping the school to investigate whether there is an issue with the school's private pipework and while that continues we remain in regular contact with the school and are providing bottled water."