04 November 2009
United Utilities will soon be working in Rostherne as part of a multi-million pound pipe laying project.
The £7 million project - which is part of the water company's £2.9 billion water quality and environmental improvement programme for 2005-2010 - started in May this year and is designed to improve water supplies in Rostherne and Knutsford.
From Monday, November 9 engineers will begin laying the new pipe through Rostherne.
United Utilities' Project Manager Ian Grzelak said: "We will be using the latest engineering techniques to install this part of the new pipe, which is less disruptive and quicker than the traditional method of laying pipes in trenches.
"Where possible we will work in fields around the village, but at times we will need to work in roads as well.
"Because of this we have decided to carry out the work in two stages in order to keep vehicular access in place for as long as possible."
The first stage, which will start on November 9 and is expected to finish by December 23, will see engineers laying the pipe along Rostherne Lane from St Mary's Church to the A556.
The second stage, which will take place in the New Year (January 4 to February 14), will see engineers working on Rostherne Lane from St Mary's Church through to Ashley Road.
Both of these stretches of road will be closed to through traffic whilst work is taking place.
Diversion routes will be clearly signed and access will remain in place at all times for pedestrians.
Where possible access will be maintained for residents' vehicles.
Ian added: "We are doing everything we can to keep disruption levels to a minimum during this huge engineering project.
"We would like to thank residents and motorists in advance for their patience and understanding while these essential improvements are carried out.
"Replacing the whole stretch of this ageing pipe will not only improve the quality of water supplies serving 24,000 customers across Knutsford and Rostherne but also enhance the overall reliability of the network - as well as reducing the risk of leakage.
"Our new plastic water main will ensure that we continue to supply water to the local area for many more years to come."
The route of the 9.5km pipeline passes close by to Rostherne, Dunham Massey, Tatton Park, Bowden and Knutsford.
The project is expected to be completed during May 2010.
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