National Grid in spotlight on compensation

Wednesday, 27 January 2010

Customers angry after supply cuts at Christmas

By Nick Griffin

TRADERS in East Barnet have criticised National Grid for leaving them out of pocket in the aftermath of a massive gas supply failure during the Christmas break.

At least 1,000 homes in East Barnet were left with no heating or hot water after supplies failed, with temperatures plunging below zero on December 20.

Many homes and businesses were left without supplies, wrecking Christmas plans and forcing traders to shut up shop after a burst water main forced water into gas pipes.

Amy Tang, who runs the Chu Chin Chow restaurant in Cat Hill, was told by National Grid that she was not eligible for compensation despite having to close for almost two days.

She said: “That week is the busiest of the year. We had to cancel 25 bookings on the Monday and on Tuesday a lot
of people cancelled because they didn’t know if we would have any gas.

“I’m just very surprised that we are not entitled to anything. They worked very hard to get us reconnected but afterwards they haven’t handled it very well at all.”

Erden Salih, who owns the Smart Dry Cleaners in East Barnet Road, had no gas to generate the steam needed to clean and dry clothes for four days and estimates he lost at least £2,500 in earnings.

He said: “We’ve heard nothing about compensation whatsoever. The landlord won’t wait for the rent and the council won’t wait for the business rates, so I will have to pay for it out of my own pocket.”

Chipping Barnet MP Theresa Villiers met residents and traders who are campaigning for better compensation last Friday.
She said: “Residents have legitimate concerns about the compensation. It would be useful if there was a public meeting with representatives from Veolia Water and National Grid and I’m happy to get in touch with these companies.”

A spokesman for National Grid said that a representative would be contacting Ms Tang to discuss compensation.

He added: “Under our standards of service, affected households and small businesses are eligible for compensation.

“These rates are determined by the regulator Ofgem.”

Contact National Grid by calling 0845 605 6677.

Email: nick.griffin@nlhnews.co.uk

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