Replacement of Victorian water mains brings traffic disruption
Worn-out Victorian water mains are being replaced in the northern section of Wood Lane, Thames Water says.
In the multi-million pound project, 10 miles (16km) of old, cast iron pipes are being exchanged for tough, flexible plastic ones within the boundary of Wood Lane, Ladbroke Grove, the Westway and the railway line in W10. Some of the pipes are 150 years old.
In another scheme in nearby West Kensington, seven miles (12km) of ageing pipework will be replaced within the boundary of Hammersmith Road, Kensington High Street, Avonmore Road, West Cromwell Road, Talgarth Road and Queen Caroline Street.
Neil Franks, managing both projects, said: "These schemes in North and West Kensington are part of Thames Water's ongoing work to replace 1,300 miles of old pipes under London by 2010 - enough to stretch more than 11 times around the M25. We've replaced about 1,000 miles since beginning this work in 2003, reducing leakage in the past four years by 24 per cent.
"Wherever possible, new pipes will be placed inside the old metal ones, which means less trench-digging will be required, minimising disruption to motorists and residents.
"Although the new plastic pipes are smaller, the smoother surface ensures the amount of water carried through the pipe is not reduced. They're also less susceptible to damage from soil corrosion and traffic vibrations than the old ones."
Thames Water say they are working closely with the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, Transport for London and London Buses to help minimise disruption to residents, businesses and motorists. Work in North Kensington is currently focused on Wood Lane, where there are some delays to traffic.
Work to replace mains pipes at the southern end of Wood Lane was carried out last year. The northbound carriageway had to be completely closed for several months, causing severe traffic disruption around Shepherd's Bush Green.
17 May 2009
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