Project Update 21/08/2026

Good afternoon

We've completed all major milestones on the critical work to the new water main, this marks an important step towards the new pipe being commissioned.

Pressure and water quality testing was successfully completed as expected last weekend, which meant this week (w/c 17 August) the water flow going into the original pipe was able to be switched over to the new pipe. This is a significant milestone that we are pleased to have reached. We have also backfilled the excavations on the Eastern Avenue and Southend Arterial Road.

From Monday 24 August, the original pipe will be decommissioned and sealed. Working areas will be progressively returned to TfL during the week, in preparation for the planned full site handover on Monday 31 August, in line with the commitment made in July.

We will then need to complete final reinstatement and resurfacing works in the area where work has been taking place before we can fully reopen the road network and will provide a timeframe for this as soon as possible once the site has been handed back.

To support this, four large vehicles will be travelling to our site on the morning of Monday 24 August. These vehicles will be fully escorted to ensure that speed limits are adhered to and that movements are managed safely and responsibly throughout the route.

We appreciate that vehicle movements of this size may cause some temporary disruption but please be assured that these movements will be carefully managed, and we will do everything we can to minimise any inconvenience to residents.

TfL contractors are also working to resolve reported drainage issues on the carriageway in the area which are not related to the water main works. Works are continuing this weekend and will be completed before surfacing works are carried out

ESW and TfL continue to work closely together and remain focused on completing the remaining works safely and efficiently, while protecting essential water supplies and moving towards restoring full access to the road network.

We appreciate the continued patience and understanding of local residents, businesses and road users while this vital work is completed, and we are pleased to be moving into the final stage of the ESW programme.

A further update will be provided next week.

Thanks for your patience.

The Project Team