United Utilities supports Kingsley, Crowton and Norley schools through volunteering session and new equipment

Pupils at three primary schools in Kingsley, Crowton and Norley are benefiting from the support of United Utilities, with the region’s water company carrying out a range of jobs at the sites and funding new equipment.

United Utilities and its contractor C2V+ have been enhancing the local wastewater treatment works and sewer network over the past few months, and to thank the community for their patience while construction traffic was in the area, they joined with environmental contractor Three Shires to hold a volunteering day at Kingsley St John’s Primary School on Hollow Lane.

They got stuck in to a number of tasks at the school, including painting railings, walls, picnic benches and sheds; providing vegetable boxes; creating a sensory garden; creating a football goal wall; and refurbishing the multi-use room. The pond and decked area were also given a new lease of life thanks to the experts from Three Shires, meaning wildlife will also benefit.

United Utilities also supported Crowton Christ Church Primary School on Kinglsey Road by providing funding towards a new pergola which will offer a place for pupils to enjoy the fresh air while staying out of the sun.

And at Norley Church of England Primary School on Hough Lane, United Utilities provided funding for an outdoor electrical point. This allows the school to host activities such as its recent family camping event.

David Schofield, Third Party Co-ordinator at United Utilities, said: “We’re always keen to give something back to communities where we’re carrying out work, as we recognise there can be some disruption.

“Helping three local primary schools, in conjunction with C2V+ and Three Shires, was a real pleasure, and we’re glad we were able to work together to benefit local pupils. We got such a lot done in a short space of time, and it’s wonderful to know the children are already enjoying their new facilities.”

Hannah MacLeod, Customer & Stakeholder Coordinator at C2V+ said: “C2V+ were excited to be part of the volunteer day. Having worked on the Kingsley WwTW, as contractor for United Utilities upgrading equipment since July 2022, we had got to know some of the community very well.

“Providing a day of work to a local school requiring some help was a great way to say thank you to the community.”

Dan Dickinson, Project Manager at Three Shires, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the community day at Kingsley St John’s, and it was great to give something back to a community we’ve worked in over the past 12 months. We’d like to say a big thankyou to C2V+ and United Utilities for welcoming us to take part, and we hope all the pupils like the rejuvenated pond area. We’re excited for the next one!”

Heather Bettley, Headteacher at Crowton Primary School, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to buy and put up a wooden pergola as part of our environmental enhancements at school. United Utilities were extremely generous and it has made such a difference to our outside play areas. The children love it and use it daily.”

Mrs H Kelly, Headteacher at Norley CE Primary School, said: “We are extremely grateful to United Utilities for supporting Norley CE Primary School and donating the funds for a fully waterproof outdoor plug socket. This has enabled our PTFA group to hold a camping night on the school field and raise valuable funds for our school. It has also allowed the school to rent an outdoor swimming pool for the playground, ensuring that every child can have an intensive swimming course for 2 weeks in the autumn term without the cost of transport. Thank you United Utilities!”