Thames Water starts 19km Loughton upgrade, affecting 60 roads

thames water has started replacing 19 kilometres of water main through Loughton, beginning work last month in High Beech. The project could affect 60 roads in the area and is expected to last about 3 years.

The work includes Debden Lane, Staples Road, Coles Green and Queens Road. Thames Water has put the cost at £30 million and said the scheme is part of its biggest upgrade in 150 years.

Mark Taylor on Loughton

Mark Taylor, director of infrastructure delivery at Thames Water, said the company is spending over £20 billion to fix leaks, reduce pollution and protect water quality. He said, “Our purpose is to deliver life’s essential service, so our customers, communities and the environment can thrive.”

He added, “It’s vital that we upgrade our ageing infrastructure, and our work across Loughton will provide greater resilience to the area and a better service for customers.” Taylor also said, “It’s another piece of the work we are doing across the region to upgrade our network and provide the best quality service we can for years to come.”

Chidi Nweke in Epping Forest

Cllr Chidi Nweke, the Epping Forest councillor, said, “Reliable water infrastructure is important for our residents, and we welcome investment in Loughton’s network.” He also said, “We are happy to be working closely with Thames Water to help minimise disruption and inconvenience to residents while these works are carried out.”

The project started in High Beech last month and now runs across a wider stretch of Loughton, where delays could be felt on 60 roads over the coming years. For residents and drivers on the listed routes, the practical issue is not the plan itself but the length of time it will stay in place.