The Vyrnwy Aqueduct
Modernisation Programme
Explore the plans for your area
Click on the relevant virtual exhibition room to find out more about our plans for working on the Vyrnwy aqueduct in your local area.
In February and March 2023, we held community drop-in sessions about our work for the Malpas through to Norton phases. We’ll be planning further sessions as our project progresses and will provide updates once details are confirmed.
The Vyrnwy Aqueduct
United Utilities provides water to 7 million people across the North West through a network of pipes, aqueducts and reservoirs. Since 1892, the Vyrnwy Aqueduct, which runs from Lake Vyrnwy through to Merseyside, has helped deliver clean wholesome drinking water to customers and communities across Cheshire, Merseyside and the North West region. However, the pipeline now requires work to ensure the quality of your drinking water and to reduce the number of water discolouration currently experienced by some of our customers that are supplied by the Vyrnwy Aqueduct.
Our Programme
We have already refurbished 40% of the pipe and will now be completing the remaining length from Malpas through to Merseyside between now and 2028.
We anticipate to start our main construction in 2023 and we will split work into three sections;
- Malpas to Tarporley (2023 – 2025) including:
Hampton Heath, Bickerton, Bulkeley, Peckforton, Beeston, Eaton, and Rushton - Tarporley to Norton (2023 – 2027) including:
Cotebrook, Delamere, Hatchmere, Kingsley, Aston and Runcorn - Norton to Prescot (2024 – 2027) including:
Cuerdley, Widnes, Farnworth, Bold, Rainhill, Prescot and Eccleston
We are working with Local Authorities and stakeholders across Cheshire and Merseyside to obtain the relevant permissions for our work and engaging with those communities most affected by our proposals.