Hitches Lane rising main replacement
We're replacing a section of the rising main serving Hitches Lane pumping station between the Fleet Road Railway Bridge and M3.
Laid in the late 1980s, the iron pipe is suffering from internal corrosion. This has been causing a number of bursts and leaks. The new plastic pipes we install are more durable, so will reduce water loss.
We'll be working in phases. Phase one focused on surveys and designs for the replacement main. This is now complete. Phase two begins in April 2025.
Please note that details will change as the project progresses. This page was last updated on 14 April 2025.
When and where we'll be working
Our work starts Monday 22 April 2025. It will last around 11 weeks, until Saturday 5 July 2025. We'll be working in phases along Hitches Lane to complete the scheme.
Our working hours will be 7.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday.
How this may affect you
- Temporary traffic lights along Hitches lane. During school hours, stop/go boards will support safe crossing for pedestrians.
- Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times for homes and businesses
- Emergency service access won't be affected
- Increased noise and vehicle movements during working hours
Our teams may turn up to site earlier to attend safety talks and briefings on the work they're carrying out.
We’ll do all we can to reduce disruption while we work. But we understand your business may sometimes be affected. Learn more about our business loss of profits policy.
We're aware a large community event is planned on 28 June 2025. We're working with the organisers and local authorities to minimise impact.
Emergency services water supply
As we replace our pipes, it's essential we reconnect all building services that are in use. This includes any emergency services connected to the mains, such as sprinklers or misting systems. Due to the age of some of these systems, information isn't always shown on our records.
Please call 0800 316 9800 if you have emergency services connected to the water main.
Status of leaks and pollution levels
While the leaks are still present, they have been contained since the meeting held on 24 April 2024. A new leak has occurred on Network Rail land close to the Fleet Road Railway Bridge. This has been contained and currently sealed itself, but it's being monitored. Network Rail are aware of this and are working with us to monitor the situation.
There is evidence of additional small leaks in other locations. These are also monitored. We're walking the route of the main twice a week to check for new leaks.
Please report any suspected leaks to us by calling on 0800 316 9800, so that we can investigate further.
The water in the various ponds and watercourses close to the route of the rising main have been tested. No evidence of contamination was found.
Get in touch
If you have any questions about our work, please call us on 0800 316 9800 and quote reference number BB 00633928.
Alternatively you can speak to our site manager. Our site team will be wearing Thames Water personal protective clothing. Our delivery partner for the work is J Browne Construction.