"Delays will be highly likely" - Dates for Eastern Road closure announced with Southern Water works expected to take up to 8 weeks
Southern Water have confirmed the dates when a large stretch of the Eastern Road will be closed - with work expected to take up to eight weeks.
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 has been determined that “significant excavations” are needed to fix the pipe.
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.”
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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 the not-yet-opened 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 Sand Road junction with the coastal path remaining open throughout.
Bus services will be affected but any temporary relocations of bus stops have not been finalised and will be communicated before January. Stagecoach services, 14, 19 and 13 will still operate with diversion routes still being finalised.
The Southern Water spokesperson said: “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.”
Southern Water have advised there are no planned day lane closures between now and the beginning of the works on January 4.
Further information can be found on https://www.southernwater.co.uk/latest-news/eastern-road-important-travel-information-21-november-2025/