Ground work to begin in Paddock Wood, Kent before replacement of burst-prone water main

Ground investigation work is about to begin in Paddock Wood, Kent as part of South East Water’s plan to replace 500 metres of ageing, unreliable water pipe later this year in a £260,000 investment in the local water network.

Work to dig a trial hole in Mascalls Court Road will start on 27 April and is due to last three days. This trial hole is needed to assess the state of the ground and to help the company plan the best route for the new water pipe which is set to be replaced in early 2023.

Jeremy Dufour, Project Manager for South East Water, said: “The existing main has suffered eight bursts in five years which has resulted in disruptive repairs, low pressure or no water for residents. As the local provider of drinking water direct to taps for more than 100 years, this is unacceptable to us.

“As a result we are making a major investment to reduce the likelihood of problems occurring in the future by preparing to lay a new section of pipeline. We will provide more information about the main project to the local community in the coming months.

"The new pipe will start at the junction between Mascalls Court Road and Chandlers Hill and finish near the junction between Mascalls Court Road and Linnet Avenue.

"This will protect top-quality drinking water supplies for the local community for years to come.

"Before we can lay the new pipe, we need to carry out this important ground investigation work.”

As a safety precaution, temporary traffic lights will be in operation in Mascalls Court Road while the hole is being dug. Access to homes and businesses will be maintained at all times.

Jeremy added: “Our team will work as quickly and safely as possible to complete the trial hole as soon as possible. I would like to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we carry out this essential work.”

More information can be found on South East Water’s dedicated engineering scheme information page (https://www.southeastwater.co.uk/about/our-work/our-engineering-schemes).

This project forms part of the company’s £433 million investment programme between 2020 and 2025.