Another road on the outskirts of Wokingham is set to close until the end of June, 2027, with a 7.5 mile diversion being put in place, Wokingham Today can reveal.
Work will start on a section of Barkham Road in September that will last until June 2027, according to information from One Network, an online resource that identifies upcoming roadworks.
The affected section is from the junction of Barkham Street towards Langley Common Road.
The work is being planned by Thames Water.
A spokesperson told Wokingham Today: “This is the latest phase of our essential mains replacement work in Arborfield and the surrounding areas that is part of Thames Water’s biggest upgrade to its network in 150 years.
“We are installing new trunk water mains to ensure we have a modern infrastructure that will reduce the chances of bursts and leaks and support the growing needs of the community.
“We would like to thank residents, businesses and motorists for their patience whilst we carry out this major upgrade for Barkham.
“We aim to keep disruption to a minimum.”
Cllr Adrian Betteridge, executive member for active travel, transport and highways at Wokingham borough council, added:”These works are a continuation of Thames Water’s water mains upgrade to improve the reliability and capacity of the local water network in Arborfield and Barkham.
“As a utility company, Thames Water has legal powers to carry out this type of work on the public highway.
“The council reviews and coordinates these works, including traffic management arrangements, to help minimise disruption where possible.
“Permission for this project was previously declined while other works were taking place in the area.
“Road closures are only approved where they are needed for safety and diversion routes are designed to use roads that are suitable for the volume and type of traffic.
“The council does not have the power to refuse works where there is a clear operational need.
“The upgrade is essential to maintain a reliable supply of water in the area and will reduce the unplanned closures that have occurred in recent years.
“We understand that works of this scale will cause disruption and we’ll continue to work closely with Thames Water throughout the project to help ensure it is completed as efficiently as possible.”
