A self-healing pipe technology developed in Gateshead is significantly reducing the time, cost, and disruption associated with water leak repairs. Developed in 2019 by Origin Tech, Origin No Dig® allows water providers to repair leaks without the need for excavation or even knowing the exact location or size of the leak.
The new technology comes at a time when consumer bills are rising and major water companies are struggling to renew their infrastructure. One fifth of the UK’s water is now lost to leaks, an ongoing and costly issue for both water companies and their customers. Traditional leak repair methods often involve lengthy excavation, creating significant disruption to local communities and road networks.
The Origin No Dig® typical repair time is less than 30 mins from arrival to pack up and involves no excavation. The technology works by injecting a proprietary and patented non-toxic solution into the water network in the approximate area of the leak. The solution then travels through the pipe until it reaches the crack or hole, where it forms a plug within the leak or around the pipe, effectively sealing the leak. The solution is then flushed out of the pipe, and the water quality unaffected.
This streamlined solution means that repairs are ten times faster than traditional methods and eight times cheaper. As a result, savings can be passed on to the consumer. The minimised traffic disruption and lack of excavation also results in 98% less CO₂ emissions compared to traditional methods.
As of February 2025, Origin Tech has conducted 4356 successful repairs. This has prevented over 3 billion litres of water being leaked.
The technology is currently being deployed by 11 UK water operators, including Northumbrian Water, South West Water, and Thames Water.
John Marsden, Commercial Director of Origin Tech commented:
“Leak repairs have long been a disruptive and costly challenge for the water industry. Traditional methods require excavation, road closures, and lengthy repair times, adding strain to both water companies and the communities they serve. No Dig® changes this by enabling targeted, trenchless repairs that significantly cut down response times and operational costs. As the industry faces increasing pressure to reduce leakage and improve sustainability, solutions like this will be critical in modernising water infrastructure.”