MP and councillors go behind-the-scenes of South East Water’s investment project in Haywards Heath

The team behind the £250,000 project to install 464 metres of new water main in Fox Hill (B2112), Haywards Heath have showcased the work to the local MP and councillors during a recent behind-the scenes visit.

Mid Sussex MP, Mims Davies, Cllr Mike Pulfer and Cllr Steven Hillier from Mid-Sussex District council and Haywards Heath Town council saw the pipeline installation first hand and heard from engineers why the project to increase the amount of drinking water flowing into the area is needed.

The visitors also saw first-hand why Fox Hill needs to be closed for the safety of the workforce and motorists.

Mims Davies, MP for Mid Sussex, said: “I am really grateful that South East Water invited us to see the project first hand and provide us with insight into the complications they have found while installing the pipe and why the road needs to be closed.

“This is a vital project which will keep drinking water flowing to the community as the population grows.”

Matthew Cooper, South East Water Project Manager said: “We were delighted that Mims Davies MP, Cllr Mike Pulfer and Cllr Steven Hillier were able to visit the site to see for themselves the work underway and put questions from the community to us.

“The work is progressing well with 200 metres of pipeline laid so far. The team are continuing to work 12-hour days in a bid to complete the project as soon as possible and re-open Fox Hill.

While Fox Hill (B2112) remains closed for through traffic, access is being maintained to homes and businesses throughout.

A clearly signed diversion route is in place until the end of the project.

Cllr Mike Pulfer, Leader of the Haywards Heath Town Council said: “I was glad to see that South East Water have taken the initiative to put in place six day working to minimise the traffic disruption and only discarded seven day working so as not to disturb local residents’ Sundays with the noise from an essential construction site, which will being much needed benefits to the local residents”.

The project is expected to finish in mid-July and forms part of the company’s £433 million investment programme between 2020 and 2025.