Water Main Replacement Planned After 80 Years of Service

Watercare has announced plans to replace a major water main in St Peter Port after more than 80 years in operation. The aging pipework, originally installed shortly after World War Two, has reached the end of its service life and will be upgraded to improve reliability and resilience.

The water main, located along Mill Street and Mansell Street, has experienced multiple bursts during 2025. One of these incidents resulted in flooding at a local business, highlighting the urgent need for renewal and long-term infrastructure improvement.

Upgrade Works Scheduled to Begin in January

The replacement project is scheduled to begin on 2 January and is expected to take approximately two months to complete. As part of the upgrade, the existing pipe installed in 1946 will be replaced with a larger, more durable main designed to better withstand modern demand and reduce the risk of future failures.

Watercare confirmed that the works will be carefully phased to minimise disruption and ensure continuity of service for residents and businesses in the area.

Maintaining Access and Water Supply During Construction

Throughout the project, access to shops and properties along Mill Street and Mansell Street will be maintained. Temporary overland pipe systems will be installed to ensure that all homes and businesses remain connected to the water supply while the replacement work is carried out.

These temporary arrangements allow essential services to continue uninterrupted, even while underground infrastructure is being renewed.

Preserving Historic Street Features

Given the historic nature of the area, special care will be taken during excavation works. Each cobblestone removed to access the water main will be individually cleaned and carefully reinstated once the new pipe has been installed.

Project managers have described the work as highly detailed and labour-intensive, requiring precise handling to preserve the character of the street.

Phased Delivery and Long-Term Benefits

According to Watercare’s project delivery team, the phased approach and temporary pipe installations are essential to maintaining water supply security throughout the upgrade. Once completed, the new water main will provide improved capacity, durability, and reliability for decades to come.

Watercare remains committed to investing in critical infrastructure upgrades to protect customers, reduce emergency repairs, and support a resilient water network for the future.