A SERIES of road closures will take place as part of a significant project to revamp water supplies in Finchampstead.

South East Water is investing more than £1 million and laying more than 3km of brand new pipes, starting from the end of July.

The company is taking the opportunity to replace a "burst-prone pipe" at the same time and residents are being invited to find out more about the scheme.

A public drop-in session will be held at Finchampstead Baptist Church, Gorse Ride North, on May 1 to allow the company’s project team to answer any questions.

Jeremy Dufour, project manager, said: “This is a significant project for us and it will allow us to continue to supply crystal-clear drinking water as the population grows.

“The bulk of the scheme will be carried out in Nine Mile Ride and, in order for us to do this safely, we will need to close the road for several months.

“A diversion route, as agreed by Wokingham Borough Highways, will be in place and access to homes and businesses will be maintained at all times.

“We’re sorry for the disruption this may cause but a road closure is essential to protect motorists, pedestrians and our workforce.”

New pipes will be installed on Finchampstead Road, Billing Avenue, Gorse Ride South and Nine Mile Ride, forming part of the company's wider investment of £424m across the water network between 2015 and 2020.

Work will begin on Finchampstead Road, which will be closed to motorists during the school holiday period.

At the same time, three-way temporary traffic lights will be in operation at the junction of Gorse Ride South and Nine Mile Ride.

Mr Dufour added: “We’re working closely with residents and businesses to minimise disruption for everyone.

“While this work is happening, we will also replace an old and unreliable water main along Nine Mile Ride, close to the junction of Park Lane.

“I would encourage anyone with concerns to come and speak to us at our drop-in session on May 1 so we can explain the project in more detail.”