MPs call for faster progress and better updates on Eastern Road works

Yesterday, both Labour city MPs Stephen Morgan and Amanda Martin wrote an open letter to Lawrence Godsen, CEO of Southern Water.

The company, which manages wastewater services for the city, recently launched an eight-week sewer repair. Eastern Road’s southbound lane has been closed from Burrfields Road to Hayling Avenue since 4 January.

In recent years, the road has seen several closures and lane restrictions due to recurring sewer issues.

In their letter, the MPs recognised the “vital works” being carried out to reline the pipe, which come at a cost of £2.5m.

They described Eastern Road as “one of only three routes on and off Portsea Island and is a critical artery for residents, businesses, emergency services and the wider regional economy.

“Portsmouth is the most densely populated city in Europe after London, and even limited disruption on this route has a disproportionate and immediate impact across the city.”

They criticised “poor and inconsistent communication”, including an incorrect letter stating that northbound lanes would be closed. Despite the error being corrected, “the mistake added to uncertainty and frustration at an already difficult time”.

Additionally, they said constituents have “expressed concern about the apparent lack of activity on site”, with “limited numbers of workers present for significant periods of time”.

They added: “Given the importance of this route, they would be expected to work around the clock where possible to minimise disruption.”

The MPs asked for reassurance on measures to speed up the works, reduce congestion, and improve communication with residents going forward.

In response, a Southern Water spokesperson said: “Our team of engineers are working around the clock 24/7 day and night, to complete the repair and lining of the rising main on the Eastern Road.

“To date, a lot of the works so far have occurred below ground and within the dig sites which is out of sight. We are working as quickly and as safely as possible and are currently on target to finish on the eight-week scheduled end date.”

On whether congestion can be alleviated, they added: “Safety has to be the overriding consideration in any temporary traffic management plan. A northbound contraflow is not feasible because the road is too narrow for two heavy goods vehicles to pass safely in opposite directions, and a central safety zone would also be required to separate traffic.

“Attempting to operate a contraflow under these conditions would introduce an unacceptable level of risk and could lead to significant disruption if an incident occurred.

“We have been and will continue to share updated information on the Eastern Road sewer repair and lining works on our website, media, social media and customer letters.”

They explained that once each sewer section is installed, the curing process with large boilers can take over 24 hours, and several days are needed between sections to prepare for the next liner.

They added that the project will strengthen Portsmouth’s pipeline using innovative lining technology to future proof this part of the sewer network.

An MP visit with Amanda Martin and a filming day are being arranged to show the progress of the Eastern Road works and update residents.