WORK has begun on a permanent solution to Folly Hill’s long-running sewer woes, with residents warned to expect “a lot of noise and vehicle movements” in coming months.

A large section of the sewer serving north Farnham collapsed in mid-December, flooding public footpaths in Farnham Park with raw sewage and polluting a stream feeding into the River Wey.

Thames Water subsequently disconnected the sewer and was forced to transport the waste in tankers between Hampton Road and Gravel Road, every half an hour 24/7, including on Christmas Day.

Much to residents’ relief, this finally came to an end on January 5 after the utility company installed temporary pumping equipment and an above-ground pipe at the end of Shady Nook.

And last Friday work on a permanent solution got under way as forestry contractors started clearing a route for a temporary HGV access track through the park.

This will allow Thames Water to repair and replace more than 140 metres of faulty pipe. However, the utility company will need to clear vegetation, remove some small trees and set up a compound for a repair team inside the park at the first Shady Nook entrance.

“Needless to say, it will look quite drastic and there will be quite a lot of noise and vehicle movements as of Friday [January 19] as a result,” warned Upper Hale councillor and Waverley leader Julia Potts.

“The logistics of getting a 27 tonne, triple-axle truck plus water to access 300 metres into the park is not inconsiderable.

“Residents will see a number of HGV movements as a result of the required works and having discussed with Thames Water they are doing all they can to minimise any disruption caused on surrounding roads.”

Thames Water has confirmed that it will replace the first section of clay pipe extending from the Folly Hill estate into the park, but added on Tuesday that instead of replacing, it will “root cut and line” the last section of pipe, some 150 metres.

“The Tarmac path through the woods will remain closed for the time being as the temporary pipe crosses it and there will be considerable movements of large plant and machinery,” added Miss Potts.

As a precautionary measure, Miss Potts also confirmed two tankers are going to be left at the bottom of Hampton Road until a permanent solution is completed.

Because part of Farnham Park is an archaeological site, the works also need to be monitored by an archaeologist - and to minimise noise Thames Water has confirmed they will be using acoustic matting around the machinery.

A spokesman for Thames Water said: “Our essential work at Farnham Park to replace more than 140 metres of sewer pipe continues.

“We continue to work closely with residents and have put measures in place to reduce disruption and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”