A new water pipe will be installed in Tongham in a £350,000 investment to meet increasing demand from a growing community.

The project is due to begin on Monday, June 19 when South East Water will install 600 metres of new drinking water mains in The Street.

Jeremy Dufour, project manager for South East Water, said: “This investment will enable us to increase the flow of water into the local area, ensuring residents and businesses in Tongham continue to receive top quality drinking water as demand increases.

"If we don’t do the work, the area’s water pressure will reduce as demand for water would exceed the amount we can supply.”

Work is expected to take 21 weeks to complete. There will be temporary three-way lights in operation at the junction with The Street, Poyle Road and Grange Road.

As a safety precaution, the road south of The White Hart pub to the new housing development will also need to be closed to traffic from July 24 while South East Water contractors complete the work.

There will be a diversion in operation and access to homes and businesses will be maintained at all times.

Mr Dufour 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.”

More information can be found on the dedicated scheme web page at: www.southeastwater.co.uk/tongham

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