£2m water mains upgrade for Glenridding to protect against leaks
United Utilities begins work to improve water network resilience
Last updated 1st Mar 2026
United Utilities is investing over £2m to upgrade water mains in Glenridding, as part of a region-wide mains renewal program.
The project aims to improve the resilience and reliability of the water network in the area, safeguarding the system against leaks and bursts.
This initiative forms part of United Utilities’ larger £380m commitment to upgrading more than 925km of mains by 2030, with over 200km planned for upgrades in Cumbria.
In Glenridding, 5.3km of new mains will be installed.
The work is carefully scheduled into phases to minimize disruption during the tourist season in the Ullswater village.
The first phase is set to commence on 3rd March and finish by Easter.
This phase involves upgrades along a section of the A592 and residential areas, including Greenside Road.
While work is underway, temporary traffic lights will be operational on the A592, but access to all homes and businesses will be maintained.
Paul Forshaw, United Utilities’ County Business lead for Water in Cumbria, said: "This is an important project that will make our water network more robust ensuring we can deliver a reliable water supply to customers for decades to come. These new mains are designed to withstand high pressure and temperature variations and are designed to last more than 100 years. They will help reduce the risks of leaks and bursts in the future.
"We have worked closely with the local community to plan our works to co-ordinate with other activities taking place in Glenridding and we have broken it up into phases to avoid the tourist season."
Customers in the area have been informed, and United Utilities reminds residents that all employees and contract partners carry ID cards, and their identity is available to be checked.