WINCHESTER City Council has apologised following residents’ disgust at the response to a burst pipe causing flats to flood.

The council has been criticised by a number of Winnall residents after a burst pipe was left from around 4am until 11pm, on Saturday, November 12, before contractors arrived to fix it.

Numerous calls were made by residents of Craddock House, in Winnall Manor Road, throughout the day, with the pipe spraying water against flat windows. The council has now said it will “prioritise an urgent review” of the out-of-hours process.

READ MORE: Pipe leak by Winnall flats causes anger at Winchester City Council

The incident caused some of the flats and residents’ sheds to flood, damaging property and belonging and leaving the accommodation susceptible to mould.

People were also left without heating, electric and water during the day.

Four days on from the pipe problems, a spokesperson for Winchester City Council said: “We’re very sorry for the delay and confusion that happened over the weekend with the reporting of the water leak at Craddock House.

“We’re prioritising an urgent review of our out-of-hours process with our service provider, where there was a delay in alerting the relevant officers. This fell short of the usual service we pride ourselves in delivering for our residents and recognise the distress caused.

“Once officers were alerted they were able to attend on site straightaway, locate the stopcock and ensure the homes were safe. Staff will be in contact with affected residents, as we would expect to cover all reasonable costs associated, such as the use of a dehumidifier.”

The council will be “reviewing and improving the process to ensure that delays don’t happen again.”

Resident Alicia Stevens feared she wouldn’t be able to cover the costs of the electricity bill to keep the dehumidifier and of damaged items. But she has since received a call to say the council will compensate for damaged property and higher electricity costs.

SEE ALSO: Backlash for Winchester City Council following burst pipe in Winnall

Alicia said: “Fingers crossed we get something. But a sorry really isn’t good enough. I’m hoping they stick to their word now and pay for the damages they’ve caused.”

The mother, aged 24, has totalled up the costs for expenses such as damaged clothes, baby products, pillows and a therapy weighted blanket as well as dry cleaning and dehumidifier costs.

Nevertheless, Alicia remains concerned that she will have to use her child’s disability money if her list is disapproved for reimbursement at the council meeting on Thursday, November 17.