A major upgrade to the water network is set to get underway. Southern Water will replace 4.5km of ageing water mains in Partridge Green, West Sussex, using ‘no dig’ technology to minimise disruption.
The project aims to address frequent bursts and discoloured water issues by upgrading infrastructure that is up to 80 years old.
Jonathan Poll, project manager at Southern Water, said: “Some of the water mains are made of cast iron and other materials. They have been in the ground for around 80 years and despite regular maintenance they are beginning to show their age.
This replacement project will reduce the risk of discoloured water coming through customers’ taps and will also reduce the risk of bursts, leaks and interruptions to the water supply.”
The scheme began in August 2025 and is scheduled for completion in October 2026.
To reduce the impact on residents and businesses, Southern Water will use trenchless technology, including directional drilling to tunnel beneath roads and pavements. However, in areas where tunnelling is not possible, excavation will be required.
The project will be carried out in eight phases, with a combination of traffic lights and road closures in place throughout the works.
Southern Water serves 2.7 million water customers and provides wastewater services to 4.7 million people across Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
