In June, Michael Gove MP was contacted by South East Water regarding a project to lay 600 metres of new water main in The Street, Tongham, to cope with an increase in demand for water in the area.
The works were originally due to take over 20 weeks to complete with traffic management measures being imposed, which would have been understandably disruptive for local residents and businesses. These concerns were raised with South East Water and a public meeting was arranged for the 13 July at Tongham Village Hall so that residents could be properly consulted on the planned works.
In advance of the meeting, Michael wrote jointly with his Surrey MP colleague, Jeremy Hunt, to the CEO of South East Water regarding worries about the duration and route of the proposed works on Tongham High Street. On behalf of the people of Tongham, they highlighted that this is a high-traffic High Street close to the junction with the Hogsback A31, and therefore all efforts must be taken to minimise any interruption to local businesses and reduce disruption as far as is reasonably possible to local residents.
Michael and Jeremy received a response which can be found below detailing revised plans for a much shorter period of works.
On 11 August, Michael was delighted to receive news that the works were to be completed that day, 3 weeks ahead of schedule, and that the site should be cleared by early the next week.
Michael commented:
“This is great news for the people and businesses of Tongham affected by these works. Given the original proposals involved such a long period of works, to see The Street fully reopening so swiftly is hugely welcome. I would like to thank all those who shared their thoughts and concerns with South East Water to help ensure the works were prioritised and completed as rapidly as possible.”
