A Hackney Wick newbuild complex in east London has left approximately 1,800 flats without drinking water due to contamination of the drinking tank. The developer, Taylor Wimpey, discovered

hydrocarbons in the water, a chemical compound found in oils and natural gases that can be harmful if leaked into drinking water. The contamination was first detected two weeks ago when residents began to notice a chemical odor similar to nail varnish. The problem was traced to the communal drinking water tank room, which was contaminated due to an issue related to the hydrocarbons.

Residents have expressed concern that the contamination may have resulted from ongoing construction work, with Taylor Wimpey building shops and commercial units on the ground floor of the four buildings – Waterway, Distillery, Outfall, and Greenway. The affected residents also suspect that they could be breathing in the chemicals through air vents or ingesting them through drinking water, leading to long-term health problems. Some residents have complained of nausea, while one claimed that their child suffered from a rash due to the leak.

Taylor Wimpey said that Thames Water's tests showed the level of hydrocarbons was not high enough to cause harm, only generate an unpleasant smell. However, as a precaution, Thames Water put a restriction on drinking water after receiving complaints from residents on 28 February. The drinking tank has been drained, disinfected, and chlorinated, and all residents in the four buildings have been provided with bottled water.

The contaminated water in the Hackney Wick newbuild complex is a reminder of the importance of proper disposal of hazardous chemicals and the potential dangers of industrial applications. The incident highlights the need for greater regulation of construction sites to ensure that hazardous materials are not improperly disposed of, thereby posing a risk to human health and the environment.

Taylor Wimpey has apologized to residents for the inconvenience caused and is investigating the cause of the problem in collaboration with Thames Water and the managing agent. The water supply issue is expected to be resolved as quickly as possible, and regular updates will be provided to affected residents. Thames Water has confirmed that the issue with the property's water supply has been identified, and it is working with Taylor Wimpey to address the issue.

The incident has raised concerns among residents about the safety of their drinking water and the potential risks of chemical contamination. Taylor Wimpey's swift response in providing bottled water to affected residents is commendable, but it is essential that measures are put in place to ensure that hazardous materials are not improperly disposed of in the future. Residents' concerns about the long-term effects of exposure to the chemicals must also be addressed to reassure them that their health and safety are not at risk. Photo by Alex Anlicker, Wikimedia commons.