Audenshaw MP, Andrew Gwynne is calling on United Utilities to resolve the Audenshaw Reservoir flies problem that is blighting local residents.

At the request of local residents, a meeting was organised in February by Andrew Gwynne MP's office with representatives from United Utilities (UU) at which local Labour Councillors were also present. The meeting was chaired by Councillor Wendy Brelsford.

 As a result, UU have agreed to do more to try to resolve the problem in Audenshaw.

UU have agreed:

• To carry out more spraying, especially at the key times of the year and including in adjacent gardens where residents request. Residents will be provided with an emergency hotline number in the near future to report problems to UU,
• To look at other chemical products to see if they will be more effective at killing eggs and larvae,
• To introduce species of fish which eat fly larvae.

UU have also commissioned Liverpool University to carry out a detailed study on the reservoir with a view to recommending action to reduce the swarms of flies.

Andrew Gwynne MP said:

“Last year has been particularly bad for residents and we have received a large number of complaints which we have taken up directly with the various authorities.”

“Hopefully the action UU have pledged to take will work, but I am committed to working with residents and your local Labour Councillors to monitor the situation and demand further action from UU if this does not solve the problem.”

“I am decidedly unhappy that a realistic solution has still to be found which will eradicate the swarms. I have asked United Utilities to keep me fully informed on the progress of Liverpool University’s research into this matter, and while I accept that such research cannot be rushed I have also made clear to United Utilities the strong feelings of residents in the area.”

Local campaigner Jean Brazil said:

“I want United Utilities to take full responsibility for this ongoing problem. I will work alongside the MP and Councillors Colin White and Wendy Brelsford to make sure they do, and will keep you fully updated.”

See our leaflets to local residents:

 - Spring 2008 (NEW)

 - Autumn 2007