MOTORISTS have around a fortnight of traffic chaos to look forward to from Monday, as Thames Water starts work on improving the troublesome sewer at the Shepherd and Flock roundabout. The £400,000 project, expected to take six weeks, will mainly be concerned with a 500- metre stretch between the roundabout and the sewage treatment works in Monkton Lane. Over the past few years a number of leaks have resulted in flooding and widespread disruption to local residents, businesses and traffic. This time, a new pipe will be inserted within the old sewer. Traffic restrictions at the roundabout will be necessary for around two weeks. Traffic arriving at the roundabout on the A31 from the Alton direction will be restricted to one lane, as the slip lane on the roundabout leading into Guildford Road will be closed. Guildford Road itself, however, will remain open throughout. Traffic approaching the traffic lights on the roundabout from the Guildford direction will also be restricted to one lane. The lane closures will operate 24 hours a day, but after the initial work on the highway, the project should only involve work on the verges and the restrictions will be lifted. Ann Weston, project manager for Thames Water, said: "We are working closely with Surrey County Council to ensure inconvenience is kept to a minimum and the work is completed as soon as possible." She added that pedestrian and traffic safety was the highest priority. "We fully realise the impact this scheme will have on motorists. We want to ensure we respond to all concerns," he said. Residents can receive information about the work by calling Thames Water's Customer Centre on 0845 9200 800 and quoting reference BB694969.
