Water company hits key milestone ahead of schedule

A major, multi-million-pound pipeline project has hit its first milestone two weeks ahead of schedule.

South East Water is currently installing more than 11 kilometres of new pipe between Fleet and Odiham, Hampshire.

All of the first phase of new pipe has now been installed within Cove Road - the first major section of the project – well ahead of schedule.

It means South East Water can lift the road closure ahead of time and move onto the next phase of the scheme in Fleet Road from Monday, 29 November.

Matthew Cooper, Project Manager, said: “I’m really pleased with the progress we have made so far and it is great to see we are working ahead of schedule.

“The road closure in Cove Road will be lifted later this evening(Friday) which I know will be welcomed by residents and motorists who use the area.

“We are really sorry for any disruption caused and we’re grateful for the patience shown by everyone while we’ve been working in the area.”

The vital project will allow the company to strengthen the capacity of the network and ensure residents’ water pressure is not affected by the growing population.

South East Water will now begin installing pipe in Fleet Road, at the junction of Pale Lane, working towards Reading Road.

Matthew continued: “Initially, we had planned to begin work at the opposite end of Fleet Road but following consultation with residents, we’re now planning to begin at the junction of Pale Lane.

“This section will be carried out under temporary traffic lights rather than a road closure, further minimising the disruption to the local community.

“Work in Fleet Road will halt on 12 December to ensure the community is not impacted over the busy festive period and we will return on 10 January, at which time a road closure will be in place.”

For more information on the project, head to our dedicated engineering scheme page.