Could someone ID this manhole

[J_N30]

Hi guys.

Looking to rip up some terrible tarmac and get it block paved. Could someone tell the purpose of this manhole. Doesnt look like it does anything to me.

Many thanks

 

[JohnD]

Looks like a fire hydrant or service valve. Spoon the mud and dirt out. This is mine.

View media item 1509
View media item 1510

 

[J_N30]

I'll have a dig later and see. All that's visible is the pipe what ever it's for.

 

[JohnD]

the wider one of mine is the fire hydrant. Note the very big square shaft. I have lifted the cap on the water outlet pipe for the photo (it's back now). Should have a retaining chain. The outlet pipe is threaded for the fire pump connector. Since the photo I cleaned the pit out.

BTW it looks like the brick walls of your pit have given way, either from heavy vehicles or because the builders forgot to use cement. It will need digging out and remaking.

 

[J_N30]

Can't see your pic John

 

[JohnD]

have added pics now, can you see them?

 

[JohnD]

if it is a hydrant, then under the dirt will be something like

I think the pipe is about 2 1/2" diameter

 

[Nige F]

W O Wash Out ? ask your water supply co.

 

[J_N30]

if it is a hydrant, then under the dirt will be something like

View attachment 148705

I think the pipe is about 2 1/2" diameter

I can see the hydrant pics thanks John.

I think your spot on, was walking the baby round the streets earlier and i spotted a new hydrant sign on a lamp post, below it was the same cover as mine but painted yellow. I wonder if mine was either missed in the new signage or perhaps it's a blank as doesnt look like there's much down there but ill have a dig.

I'm hoping I can replace it with one you can sink pavers in but if it is a fire hydrant I'm presuming I should leave it well along so it's noticeable in the event of ever being needed?!?

 

[scbk]

W O Wash Out ? ask your water supply co.

I had always assumed WO was "water outlet" as I've seen the sign above a fire hydrant, but after googling it seems you are right, it is Wash Out