UNUSUALLY high levels of lead have been discovered in the water supply at a sheltered accommodation scheme in Essex.

James Hore

UNUSUALLY high levels of lead have been discovered in the water supply at a sheltered accommodation scheme in Essex.

A resident at Honeycroft Sheltered Housing Scheme in Lawford, near Manningtree, became suspicious about the quality of the water in his flat.

A series of tests have now been carried out by Tendring Hundred Water Services which revealed a “one-off isolated failure”with lead levels higher than would normally be expected at the property.

Tendring District Council, which is responsible for the sheltered accommodation, has been made aware of the situation and has provided bottled water to drink.

Tests on the mains water supply proved to negative although more investigations are being carried out at other properties in the scheme today.

Steven Henderson, the councillor in charge of housing, said residents had been informed of the situation.

“We want to make it clear that there is no reason for the residents not to drink their tap water but we appreciate that some may have concerns and we want to allay their possible fears.

“For that reason - and purely as a precaution - we are providing 480 two-litre bottles of drinking water so that anyone who has any concerns whatsoever can help themselves to the bottles and have total peace of mind,” he said.

The water was delivered to the site yesterday afternoon.

“The health of our residents is always our first priority and we will be waiting the outcome of the further tests with interest,” added Mr Henderson.

There are 37 people living at Honeycroft and they have a scheme manager looking after the site.

The council said it will continue to work in partnership with the water company.