Plough Lane, Waltham St Lawrence set for water mains investment to help prevent bursts

An ageing water pipe in Waltham St Lawrence that has been prone to bursts in recent years is about to be replaced in a £90,000 investment.

The project is due to begin on Monday, 7 August when South East Water will install 210 metres of new drinking water mains in Plough Lane.

Jeremy Dufour, Project Manager for South East Water, said: “The existing water main has suffered seven bursts in five years. These have resulted in 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.

“This investment will reduce the likelihood of problems occurring in the future and protect top-quality drinking water supplies for the local community for years to come.”

Work is expected to take six weeks to complete and, as a safety precaution, Plough Lane will be closed to through traffic between the junction with School Lane and the property ‘Ashleigh’ while the work is taking place.

There will be a clearly signed diversion route in operation via West End Lane, Hungerford Lane, Brook Lane and School Road, while access to homes in Plough Lane will be maintained at all times.

Jeremy added: “Road closures are always a last resort but this is vital to ensure the safety of our team and the public while we install the new pipe. Our team will work as quickly and safely as possible to complete the project 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.”

This project forms part of South East Water’s £489 million investment programme between 2020 and 2025.

More information can be found here.