Drinking Water Quality Monitoring

The rural nature of much of Breckland is reflected in the fact that significant numbers of dwellings do not enjoy the benefit of mains water or indeed mains drainage. Breckland staff carry out a monitoring programme for private water supplies under the provisions set out in the Private Water Supplies Regulations 1991.

Shallow wells, in particular, are vulnerable to pollution from a variety of sources including defective drainage systems, agricultural run-off and animal waste. Boreholes are generally less susceptible to this type of contamination owing to the protection afforded by their depth, but conversely can suffer from high levels of elements such as iron and manganese. Whilst not necessarily a risk to human health, the presence of such chemicals may be undesirable owing to the detrimental effect they have on domestic fittings and clothing.

The impact of agricultural practices has also created pockets within the Breckland area where nitrate levels hover around the Maximum Admissible Concentration. This is particularly significant in the case of new-born babies where consumption of water containing high nitrate levels can lead to a condition known as Methaemoglobinaemia (Blue baby syndrome).

Mains Water Supply:

For water quality or supply issues, relating to mains water, please contact the Anglian Water 24 Hour Link Line on 08457 145145.