Major £5m Water Mains Upgrade Underway On The Isle Of Wight

A major water mains upgrade programme is now underway across the Isle of Wight, as Southern Water invests more than £5 million to replace around 11km of ageing pipes over the next 18 months.

The project aims to reduce the number of pipe bursts, cut leakage, and minimise emergency repair work — helping to ensure a more reliable water supply for Island residents.

Some of the existing cast iron mains, which date back as far as 1866, are now being replaced with modern plastic pipes designed to be stronger and longer-lasting.

Since work began in August, more than 2km of pipes have already been upgraded.

The second phase of the programme — replacing 1.8km of mains on Rew Street, Cowes, the Island’s longest mains replacement to date — started on 6 October and is expected to finish by January 2026.

Meanwhile, work began yesterday (Monday 20 October) on replacing a section of main along the A3054 between Shalfleet and Ningwood Hill, with two-way traffic lights in place until mid-December.

Today (Tuesday 21 October), Southern Water met with local councillors to discuss upcoming works planned for Horsebridge Hill and Elenors Grove in Fishbourne, due to start in early 2026.

Traffic management measures will include:

• One-way restrictions from Cowes to Newport between 26 January and 17 April, with controlled access for buses and emergency services.

• A road closure on the A3054 at Elenors Grove from Fishbourne to Ryde, with diversions in place from 2 February to 10 April.

Affected residents and businesses will soon receive letters outlining the plans, and public drop-in sessions are due to be announced before the end of the year.

Southern Water says the mains replacement schedule has been carefully planned around the Island’s holiday season and major events, in partnership with Island Roads.

Nicholas Marshall, Senior Project Manager for Southern Water, said:

“Many of the pipes that supply the Island are more than 100 years old, and it’s essential they’re upgraded to reduce the risk of bursts and interruptions to supply.

"While we know road closures are never welcome, we’ve worked closely with Island Roads to keep disruption to a minimum.

"We’re grateful to customers for their patience and support as we work to future-proof the Island’s water network for years to come.”