Chessington new trunk main
We've upgraded the pipework supplying the Chessington area with drinking water.
Our £14 million investment began in August 2023, to replace 1.7km of ageing pipe. This will reduce supply interruptions and leaks, keeping your taps flowing.
Mark Taylor, Director, London Infrastructure delivery, of Thames Water, said: "This investment will provide more resilience to the Chessington area, and helps future-proof for development and growth. It is a fantastic example of the billions of pounds Thames Water is investing across the region, to upgrade our ageing infrastructure and supply the highest quality of drinking water for decades to come."
John Kingdon, Operations Director of Galliford Try Construction, said: "The Galliford Try team have been proud to work with Thames Water to deliver significant water supply resilience to the Chessington area and manage the day-to-day logistics of this intrusive work. The whole team have done a great job minimising impact to customers and working with the community for their benefit."
Network service technician, Nicky Fay, turning the new main valve on
How we did it
To minimise disruption to the local area and wildlife, we used directional drilling. This first involves drilling a pilot hold underground.
Once done, we then pull back through the hold with a rotating cutting tool, known as a reamer. The brand-new water pipe follows closely behind.
Chamber building at Mansfield
New northern connection detail at Leatherhead Road
Close up of new pipe being pulled under the nearby golf course
Engaging with the community
We held drop-in sessions to tell residents about our work and support with any concerns. We also attended a local fete along with Liz Green, Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames.
A local resident said: "I am just writing to say what a terrific job your team are doing re the mammoth task you are undertaking in Telegraph Lane, Claygate. I have found your team to be extremely polite, courteous and helpful and they are a real credit to your company."
A local farmer said: "I just wanted to give credit where its due. The Thames Water pipeline across the farm has caused severe disruption to the many horses and livery owners that are stabled on our land. the construction workers have been incredibly sympathetic towards them, especially when they have to turn their horses out and bring them in. John always makes sure I am informed of any works that may cause further disruption and works around the horses to ensure their safety. I am incredibly grateful to John and his team for their care and consideration whilst these works are carried out."
