RESIDENTS and motorists in Liss are being urged to plan ahead for their journeys as an essential scheme to upgrade an older water pipe got under way today.

South East Water started laying a new 0.7-mile pipeline along Hawkley Road this morning and the scheme is expected to be completed within four months.

To keep the public and the water company’s workforce safe while the new pipe is laid, Hawkley Road will be closed to traffic.

Chris Love, delivery manager at South East Water, said: “It is unacceptable to us that homes in Liss go without water when the pipes burst, which is why we plan to upgrade this section of pipe.

“We know roadworks can be frustrating to motorists and the local community. The decision to close a road is not taken lightly but this is the only way we can ensure that pedestrians, motorists and our contractor are kept safe while this important work takes place.

“I would like to apologise for the disruption this work will cause, but hope motorists and the local community understand the long term benefits this scheme will deliver.”

During the scheme, a clearly signed diversion route will be in place and access to homes and businesses will be maintained at all times.

The scheme forms part of the company’s £424m, five-year investment programme which is due to be completed by 2020.