Major water main upgrade project between Fleet and Odiham

Plans for a major, £10 million pipe upgrade to protect drinking water supplies against predicted population growth are set to be revealed.

South East Water needs to install 12 kilometres main between Fleet and Odiham, Hampshire, to allow the company to draw in large volumes of water from other areas of its vast network of pipes.

Work on the project is currently planned to begin in June 2021 and it is anticipated the project will be complete by April 2023. Residents may however see the company carrying out some early site clearance and setting up compounds in May.

The company has set up a virtual information event scheduled for Monday 19th April via Zoom where residents will be able to learn more about the scheme.

Matthew Cooper, South East Water Project Manager, said: “This project is an enormous investment which will strengthen the water network across a vast area.

“We know the population in the area is increasing and will continue to rise so we must act quickly to ensure we can continue to supply the community with top-quality drinking water direct to their taps.”

South East Water will be working in Cove Road, Fleet Road and Elvetham Heath Way in Fleet. Pipe will also be laid in Pale Lane, Dunleys Hill, Poland Lane, Bagwell Lane and Odiham Road, Hook. Other impacted roads include Winchfield Road and The Hurst.

A combination of road closures, footpath closures and temporary traffic lights will be enforced throughout the scheme.

The company also needs to lay a section of pipe within North Hants Golf Club and is working closely with its owners and members to minimise disruption to them.

Matthew continued: “While of course we do not want to disrupt leisure activities, the alternative route for the pipe would have involved an enormous diversion route which would have been extremely disruptive to residents.

“The route we have identified is the fastest, safest and least disruptive for all concerned. We know road closures and traffic lights can be disruptive but we firmly believe this project is short term pain for long term gain for the local community.

“I hope you will join us at our public information event so we can discuss the plans with you in more detail.”