THE NEXT phase of a crucial £250,000 project to improve the water supply along Wiltshire’s border with Hampshire is set to begin in early March.

Teams will return to the A343 between Salisbury and Andover to replace almost a mile and a half of ageing water mains, with a section of the road closed to through traffic for up to eight weeks.

The first phase of the project, covering the stretch east from Lopcombe Corner towards Middle Wallop, was completed between September and December under a speed restriction and traffic lights.

However, a review of the safety arrangements with the council’s Highways department determined that a full road closure was necessary for the second phase to protect both workers and road users.

The closure will run between Lopcombe Corner and Jacks Bush.

A signed diversion will be in place via Salisbury Road (A343), Andover Bypass (A303), Romsey Road/Leckford Lane (A3057) and Salisbury Hill/Stockbridge Road (A30).

A Wessex Water spokesperson said: “This important project is replacing an existing water main that has been deteriorating over the years and bursting, causing a loss of supply and disruption to the network for our local customers.

“Road closures are always a last resort but, after reviewing the outcomes from the first phase with Wiltshire Council, it was decided a closure was appropriate for the final phase of the scheme to help ensure safety is maintained.

“We’ve again written to customers across a wide surrounding area to advise them about this work and are also working with local bus providers to ensure they are aware of the impact on their routes. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Wessex Water continues to invest heavily in the supply network, renewing ageing mains, maintaining and improving facilities to store and move water, and reducing leaks.

The company repairs around 16,000 leaks each year and spends roughly £16 million annually on managing and preventing water loss.