A343 Closes for Eight Weeks as Major Water Supply Upgrade Progresses
Wessex Water is set to undertake the second phase of a significant water supply upgrade along the A343. This initiative, valued at £250,000, aims to enhance the water infrastructure between Salisbury and Andover.
A343 Road Closure for Water Supply Upgrade
The project will involve the replacement of nearly 1.5 miles of aging water mains. This upgrade is essential to reduce the risk of leaks and supply interruptions that have impacted local residents.
Details of the Upcoming Works
Scheduled to start in early March, this phase will necessitate a full road closure on the A343. The closed section will be between Lopcombe Corner and Jacks Bush for up to eight weeks.
A spokesperson from Wessex Water explained that this project is crucial in mitigating the historical problems of burst water mains. The first phase of the work was completed on schedule prior to the Christmas period, utilizing temporary traffic lights and reduced speed limits to manage local traffic.
Safety Measures and Traffic Management
In collaboration with Wiltshire Council, Wessex Water conducted a safety review. The findings indicated that a full road closure is necessary to ensure the safety of both workers and motorists during the project’s final phase.
Local residents have been notified of the upcoming changes, and Wessex Water is coordinating with bus operators to minimize disruption to their routes.
Alternative Routes During Closure
During the eight-week closure, a diversion route will be in effect. Motorists can use the following routes:
- Salisbury Road (A343)
- Andover Bypass (A303)
- Romsey Road/Leckford Lane (A3057)
- Salisbury Hill/Stockbridge Road (A30)
Long-term Investment in Water Infrastructure
This upgrade is part of Wessex Water’s broader commitment to renewing and maintaining its water supply network. Annually, the company allocates approximately £16 million to manage leaks and repair about 16,000 leak incidents. Further investments are also directed towards enhancing facilities that store and transport water to residences and businesses.
Wessex Water aims to minimize any inconvenience caused during this essential upgrade and appreciates the public’s understanding and patience.
