Disruption expected as eight week Eastern Road closure to begin next week for Southern Water sewer main repairs
A large stretch of the Eastern Road will be closed from next week as Southern Water begin repairs on a burst sewer main.
From Monday, January 5, 2026, both lanes of the southbound carriageway will be closed from Burrfields Road to Hayling Avenue with delays “highly likely”.
Works were initially due to begin in October, with only one lane needing to be closed to fix a burst sewer main, but following a site survey it was determined that “significant excavations” were needed to fix the pipe.
During the closure, Southern Water have confirmed that drivers will still be able to travel southbound on the Eastern Road from the Hayling Avenue junction.
Harbourside Park and Miller & Carter Steakhouse will not be accessible via the southbound carriageway. Access will only be available via Burrfields Road and the northbound carriageway.
The shared footpath and cycle route will also be closed from Burrfields Road to the Sword Sands Road junction with the coastal path remaining open throughout.
Bus services will be affected with Stagecoach services, 14, 19 and 13 still operating with diversions. Further information can be found on the Stagecoach website.
.jpeg?trim=0,0,0,0&width=640&quality=65)
Get access to trustworthy local news for a fiver when you sign up for a digital subscription to The News. Support our journalism and get unlimited access to our website. Find out more and sign up today.
When the news was announced in November, a Southern Water spokesperson said: “This southbound closure is essential, as significant excavations are now required to fix the burst sewer main following the findings of the recent site survey.
“The long-term £2.5m solution will strengthen Portsmouth’s pipeline, using innovative lining technology to futureproof this section of the city’s sewer network for years to come.
“Please plan your journey and consider alternative routes into the city, as delays will be highly likely at times. Allow extra time when travelling around the area and using the diversion routes.
“These works have been collaboratively planned with Portsmouth City Council to minimise disruption to the local community and avoid clashes with other essential works on major southbound routes.
“We’re sorry for the inconvenience caused and would like to thank the people of Portsmouth for their ongoing support and understanding.”
Further information can be found on https://www.southernwater.co.uk/latest-news/eastern-road-important-travel-information-21-november-2025/