By Isle of Wight Observer
Two key Island roads will be closed in early 2026 as part of Southern Water’s £5 million project to upgrade ageing water mains across the Island.
The A3054 Elenors Grove will be shut from Fishbourne to Ryde between February 2 and April, 10 while one-way traffic management will be in place from Cowes to Newport from January 26 to April 17.
The 18-month programme will replace 7 miles (11 km) of Victorian-era cast iron pipes – some dating back to 1866 – with modern plastic mains to reduce bursts, leaks and emergency repairs.
Work began in August, with over a mile (2 km) already upgraded. The longest section, at Rew Street, Cowes, is due for completion by January 2026. A separate phase between Shalfleet and Ningwood Hill is underway and expected to finish by mid-December.
Southern Water says the project has been timed to avoid peak tourist disruption and will help secure the Island’s water supply for decades to come.
Mal Butler