A NEW interactive map launched by Thames Water will make it easier for residents to report pollution, blockages and leaks. 

The new map has been designed for members of the public to report and pinpoint locations experiencing operational issues across the Thames Valley. 

For the first time, residents will have the ability to view and report potential pollution, sewer flooding and other issues online. 

New features have been added such as photo and video uploads to keep users involved in the process. 

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David Bird, retail director at Thames Water, said: “We’re delighted our new online map has gone live. As a company, we are committed to connecting with our 15 million customers and improving the service we provide to them. With this new tool, customers can report issues in a fast and simple manner that works for them.  

“We’re also excited members of the public are now able to report pollutions they spot online. Our aim will always be to try and do the right thing for our rivers and we’re grateful to anyone who takes the initiative to tell us about possible pollution. 

"Time can sometimes be a crucial factor in turning a minor issue into a major one. We’re making it as quick and easy as possible for people to report something when they see it, because the sooner we can get to a problem the better."

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The idea is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to transparency and to help protect rivers and streams. 

The map can be found on its website and there are graphics and help guides available for users to easily narrow down the nature of the problem they are experiencing or have witnessed. 

Users can then report the problem, upload photos and videos and provide a location by using the interactive map, which contains boundary lines and property numbers, to pinpoint the exact location of the problem.  

It can also be used to view all planned maintenance work going on, including details of traffic and roadwork updates so motorists can better plan their journeys.  

Once reported, the company’s operational software will schedule for the issue to be investigated and where necessary fixed by Thames Water engineers. 

For more information visit thameswater.co.uk.