Work to upgrade Harrogate’s ageing water mains is finally set to get underway, with Yorkshire Water confirming the first phase of a £1.8 million project will begin on Monday 6th October.
The project, which was delayed earlier this year, will see over 1.2km of old pipework in the town centre replaced with modern, flexible plastic pipes. The new mains are designed to make the water supply more reliable, cut down on leaks, and prevent the bursts that have been causing problems in recent years.
Phase one will focus on the pedestrianised part of Market Place and is due to run until late November. Shoppers and visitors will still be able to get around as foot access will remain open.
However, there will be a short road closure on James Street on 16th November so the newly installed network can be safely connected.
Alex Spivey, project manager at Yorkshire Water, said:
“Since the project was postponed we have been working closely with the council to reschedule, and to make sure that we’re completing the work with as little disruption as possible. We’re really pleased that we’ll be able to start the project in the next couple of weeks – sooner than we’d previously thought.”
Yorkshire Water says the improvements should make a noticeable difference in the town. In the past three years, there have been 10 mains bursts in the project area, each causing disruptive emergency repairs.
Spivey added:
“We completely appreciate that roadworks are disruptive and would like to thank everyone in the area for their patience and understanding. By completing this work, we hope to make emergency roadworks much less likely in the future.”
The Harrogate scheme is one of 21 water mains replacement projects planned in North Yorkshire over the coming year. Together, they will see more than 90 kilometres pf pipework upgraded, with another 26 kilometres scheduled for next year.
Across Yorkshire, Yorkshire Water is investing a huge £406m in mains replacement over five years – part of an even bigger £8.3bn programme to upgrade services across the region.
Phase two of the Harrogate works is due to start in the new year.
Harrogate MP welcomes crackdown on illegal number plates
Police appeal after cabling stolen from Harrogate Hospital
Harrogate SEN disco to welcome 120 young adults
Sweaty Betty celebrates successful refresh of Harrogate store
Harrogate cyclists prepare to conquer famous Tour de France climb
Knaresborough's Castle Creamery set to relocate
Police operation to disrupt criminal activity in Harrogate
Harewood House slashes tickets to celebrate 40 years
CCTV appeal after motorbike stolen near Harrogate
Support needed for Harrogate's first dedicated youth basketball club
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP marks 20,000th case
Flavours of Autumn festival to be held at RHS Harlow Carr
Le Creuset cookware sale returns to Harrogate
Council pension fund breaches could be reported to regulator
Volunteers invited to help spruce up Harrogate town centre
Police appeal after three overnight burglaries in Nidderdale
Driver admits drink-driving following fatal Pateley Bridge collision
Harrogate community groups invited to apply for share of £74,000
North Yorkshire Council-owned housing company forecast to lose another £5.8m
New York rock band to play intimate Harrogate show
