"This process can't be rushed" - Good progress made on Southern Water's Eastern Road critical sewer pipe repair
Southern Water have advised that “good progress” has been made on its Eastern Road sewer pipe repair work as it thanks residents for their patience.
The Eastern Road remains closed southbound between Burrfields Road and Hayling Avenue with the eight week closure beginning on January 4. The closure has caused traffic disruption throughout the city with regular congestion on the diversion route on Copnor Road as well as on the other main routes into Portsmouth.
Southern Water have released an update on the works confirming that work is progressing well with nearly half of the the sewer pipe already lined (765m). The first four sections of the pipe have been fully repaired and all the access pits which help workers get to the pipe safely have been completed.
A Southern Water spokesperson said: “We’re making good progress on our £2.5m upgrade to the critical sewer pipe along Eastern Road. This work will help reduce the risk of leaks or bursts and keep the system working reliably for Portsmouth.
“We know the lane closure is causing disruption locally, and we’re really grateful for your patience. The works will take around eight weeks because each section of the pipe has to be repaired and then ‘cured’. This means giving the new lining time to harden and set properly so it becomes strong, watertight and long lasting. This process can’t be rushed.”
In the coming weeks, Southern Water will be lining the remaining 884m of pipe in “carefully planned stages”.