Residents in Wells are preparing for additional roadworks this summer, as a £140,000 revamp of the city's sewer system is set to get underway.

Wessex Water is spearheading the project to upgrade more than 260 metres of the city's underground pipes. This is part of the company's ongoing commitment to ensuring the long-term resilience of the foul water system.

Despite the extensive nature of the work, most of the project will be carried out using robotic technology, reducing the disruption traditionally associated with large-scale drilling. The robots will insert a new liner inside the pipes to lessen the risk of leaks and potential sewer collapses, whilst preventing wastewater escape and groundwater infiltration.

The project forms a part of a larger £2 million investment by Wessex Water in relining nearly 7,500 metres of sewers throughout its region this summer.

Due to commence on Monday, 24 July, and conclude on Friday, 1 September, the project will be carried out in phases mainly in the west of Wells.

Temporary traffic signals will be implemented along Bishopslea Close between Monday, 24 July, and Friday, 28 July. The signals will return from Monday, 14 August, to Friday, 18 August, to facilitate the sewer relining process.

Additional disruptions will occur on Keward Walk, where 'no waiting' cones and signs will be installed from Monday, 7 August, to Friday, 18 August. The adjacent footway between Keward Walk and Jocelyn Drive will also be impacted, although access for pedestrians and residents will be preserved.

Jocelyn Drive is set for a number of disruptions. From Monday, 14 August, to Friday, 18 August, temporary traffic signals will operate from the Osmond Drive to Keward Avenue junctions. This will be followed by a full closure from the Keward Close to Keward Avenue junctions between Monday, 21 August, and Friday, 25 August, as the pipe is relined. A signposted diversion via Glastonbury Road, Strawberry Way, and Burcott Road will be in operation.

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Finally, from Tuesday, 29 August, to Friday, 1 September, temporary traffic signals will be in place from the Osmond Drive to Keward Avenue junctions on Jocelyn Drive as the footpath is reinstated.

Wessex Water has been notifying local residents and businesses of the upcoming works and the related disruptions.