A major water supply disruption in west Devon has forced school closures and left thousands of properties without running water. The outage, which began on Monday due to a burst pipe, continues to affect around 9,500 homes, despite efforts to restore the system.
South West Water confirmed that while the burst main has been repaired, many customers are still experiencing either no supply or significantly reduced water pressure. Initially, about 13,000 homes across the PL6, PL19, and PL20 postcode areas were impacted. Three schools, including Horrabridge Primary and Nursery School, were closed as a result.
Supermarkets in the area have reportedly run out of bottled water, prompting the opening of several distribution points. Residents can collect bottled water at George Park, Knightstone Tearooms, Ride, Bere Alston Bowling Club, and Morrisons in Tavistock. These stations will remain open until 10pm.
Community members have been arriving in large numbers to collect water, using cars, trolleys, and even wheelbarrows to transport supplies. Frustration is growing among locals, with many expressing dissatisfaction online regarding the lack of timely and clear communication from South West Water.
The company explained that the water network is being carefully refilled to ensure a safe and full restoration of service. Due to the system’s size and complexity, the process is taking longer than anticipated. Priority has been given to supporting vulnerable residents, and bottled water continues to be distributed where necessary.
Fred Thomas, Labour MP for Plymouth Moor View, criticised the ongoing disruption, stating that leaving residents without water for over 24 hours is not acceptable. He has contacted South West Water’s chief executive, calling for urgent action, improved crisis response, and compensation for affected households.
As engineers continue working to stabilise the network, residents are urged to remain patient and make use of the available water collection points until normal service resumes.
