Sewer Relining Commences

Hundreds of metres of sewer will be relined during a month-long programme of relining, beginning this weekend.

Specialist contractors using a “no dig” method that costs one fifth of a full sewer replacement and takes just 10% of the time, arrive in the island early next week to commence the work. This is part of our yearly programme to ensure the sewer network remains sufficient and resilient for decades. Work is taking place at this time of year to maximise daylight hours and – hopefully – happen in drier weather.

Major areas of focus include Brigade Road / Route De La Croix Au Bailiff junction which are planned over two consecutive weekends 21st > 22nd June and 28th > 30th June in order minimise both impact to weekday commuters and operational needs for Guernsey Dairy given its high-water usage and critical functions.

“The work over those two weekend’s has been meticulously planned”, said Guernsey Water Capital Delivery Manager Carl Falla. “The Dairy has to be open on the Monday morning giving us a finite window over those two weekends to get in and get the job done. It is the most challenging part of the entire four-week programme, but really highlights why we choose this method of repair. The sewer in that area is 10-metres under the ground. If it collapsed, it would take months to repair, shut the entire road for the duration and cost hundreds of thousands of pounds.

“It is fair to say most people don’t think about the miles of wastewater network criss-crossing the island beneath their feet. It’s our job to ensure these services, which are critical infrastructure and needed 24/7, are available, usable and maintained in the most cost-effective way possible.”

The no-dig method involves installing bespoke liners for each sewer. These are prefabricated in Europe and shipped over, before being installed in the existing pipe and cured in place using a UV lighting system. Works will also take place in Les Vaurioufs, Fosse Andre, School Lane and Les Abreuveurs. Residents and business in all areas have been written to.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we undertake this work over the next month.”

Updates will be provided through the Guernsey Water Facebook page.