Cheltenham estate warned of bacteria in water
Last updated 23rd Aug 2025
Dozens of residents of a Cheltenham housing estate are being told not to drink their tap water after tests found the presence of bacteria.
People living in Barlow Road in Hester’s Way are being given bottled water while works to test the water system.
Residents say they received a letter today saying bacteria has been found and they have been advised not to drink tap water or use it to brush their teeth.
Tenants have also advised to avoid letting water enter their mouths when washing or having a shower, they say.
The letter, which has been seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, says recent tests have found bacteria in the water and they are trying to find its source and establish the extent of the issue.
As a precaution, they are tesing all their properties and will be carrying out the tests over the next few days.
The letter also says they are prioritising properties where people may be at higher risk or have identified issued with the water supply. But they cannot give a definitive timescale for solving the issue.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, initially thought they were replacing lead pipes.
But they said a letter they received today (August 22) says tests have found bacteria in the water system of the estate which was built in the 1960s.
“They’ve found there’s bacteria in the water,” they said.
“We’ve all been sent these letters and I’ve had some elderly residents coming up to me and asking what they are being given the water for.
“I don’t think we are getting the support we should be getting.
“They’ve told me to be careful when having a shower to avoid water getting into my mouth.
“We’ve got 60 residents here and they are telling us to be careful.
“We are vulnerable residents. The way I’m feeling I’m all for walking out of the flat and go to a hotel or something.
“I’m not getting assurances.”
Cheltenham Borough Council who manage the homes confirmed they have identified a potential water quality issue at some of their properties in Barlow Road.
They say immediate action has been taken following recent water tests and residents in the affected properties have been issued with advice and assistance.
“As part of this, our officers have been door knocking, talking directly to tenants, providing advice and carrying out welfare checks,” a council spokesperson said.
“Letters have also been left at each property. Tenants are advised not to drink water, or brush their teeth with water directly from the taps and our officers on site are providing bottled water.
“’We are continuing to work with our partner agencies including public health, contractors and Severn Trent to understand next steps.
“Our team of officers remain on site today and across the bank holiday weekend to continue welfare checks and ensure tenants are updated at every stage.
“’We understand this will be concerning for tenants and we urge them to talk to us if they have any specific questions at this stage, or to seek medical advice if they feel unwell.’’