Water Main Repairs to Prompt Road Closure at Wiltshire-Hampshire Border
Road users near the Wiltshire-Hampshire border should prepare for significant disruptions as essential water main repairs will lead to the closure of the A343. This project, managed by Wessex Water, represents the second phase of a £250,000 investment aimed at enhancing the local water supply.
Overview of the Road Closure
The road closure will occur starting in early March and is expected to last for up to eight weeks. The affected section lies between Lopcombe Corner and Jacks Bush, and the decision was made following a safety review of the previous phase of construction.
Reasons for the Closure
The first phase of repairs took place from September to December 2023. During this phase, traffic management strategies included traffic lights and speed restrictions. However, after discussions with Wiltshire Council, Wessex Water determined that a complete road closure was necessary for the remaining work.
Diversion Routes
To ease travel during the closure, several diversion routes will be implemented:
- Salisbury Road (A343)
- Andover Bypass (A303)
- Romsey Road/Leckford Lane (A3057)
- Salisbury Hill/Stockbridge Road (A30)
Wessex Water is actively communicating with local customers regarding the project and is coordinating with bus operators to minimize disruptions to public transport.
Wessex Water’s Commitment to Improvement
This ongoing water main replacement addresses aging infrastructure that has been prone to bursts. The project aims to secure a more reliable water supply for local residents.
Wessex Water invests approximately £16 million each year to manage leaks, renew systems, and maintain facilities that support water distribution across the region. The completion of the first phase demonstrated adherence to the project timeline, and now the second phase is crucial for long-term water reliability.
Wessex Water has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and emphasizes the importance of safety during this essential maintenance work.
