Major road closures will affect Isle of Wight motorists over the next 18 months as Southern Water carries out extensive pipe replacement work across the Island.
The company currently has roadworks underway in three locations, with further significant disruptions planned for early 2026.
Current roadworks causing delays
Two-way traffic lights currently control traffic on the A3054 between Shalfleet and Ningwood Hill, where work began on Monday.
Southern Water expects to complete this section by mid-December.
In Cowes, the company started replacing 1.8km of mains on Rew Street on 6th October – the longest mains replacement on the Island to date. This work will continue until January 2026.
Major closures planned for 2026
Motorists face more substantial disruption next year, when Southern Water tackles Horsebridge Hill and Elenors Grove in Fishbourne.
The company met local councillors this week to brief them on the plans, which will start in early 2026.
One-way traffic management will operate from Cowes to Newport between 26th January and 17th April, though buses and emergency services will maintain controlled access.
The A3054 Elenors Grove will close completely to traffic travelling from Fishbourne to Ryde, with diversions in place from 2nd February to 10th April.
Letters and public consultation
Southern Water plans to send letters to affected customers and businesses explaining the works.
The company will also announce public drop-in events before the end of the year.
Why the disruption matters
The roadworks form part of a £5m investment to replace around 11km of pipes across the Island. Southern Water has already upgraded more than 2km of pipe since work began in August.
Many of the current cast iron pipes date from 1866 and show signs of wear despite regular maintenance. The company will replace them with modern plastic pipes, which offer greater durability and reliability.
Planned around Island events
Southern Water developed the programme in partnership with Island Roads, carefully scheduling work around summer holidays and the Island’s event calendar.
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 are upgraded to reduce the risk of bursts and interruption to supply.
“While we understand that road closures are never welcome, we’ve worked closely with Island Roads to minimise disruption and ensure we are able to complete the work as quickly and efficiently as possible.
“We are grateful to customers for their support and patience as we work to future-proof the Island’s mains for years to come.”
Southern Water say the upgrades will reduce emergency works and interruptions to water supply, as well as helping cut leakage.
Headline photo for illustrative purposes only
