Essex and Suffolk Water is carrying out a £1.4 million scheme in Fressingfield to renew around 8km of mains and nearby pipes, with the programme due to run until the end of next year.

The work has been split into three phases, with the first phase beginning on February 2 and scheduled to continue through to the summer.

As part of this phase, a road closure is in place on the B1116 from Mill Lane to Jubilee Corner, affecting traffic between Fressingfield and Weybread while the replacement mains are installed.

In a statement, Essex and Suffolk Water said: "This is a complex, safety-critical project involving large mains, utility crossings (including Cadent Gas’ high-pressure main), and narrow rural roads that limit working space and traffic management options."

Those who live within the closure will be allowed access with gatemen allowing access to deliveries and suppliers for homes and businesses.

The second phase, which is expected to take place between the summer and winter, will see Stradbroke Road closed to the Fressingfield Water Tower.

8km of water mains and other pipes are being replaced. (Image: Essex and Suffolk Water)

This phase will involve work near the school, with sections of the water main in the area to be delivered over the summer holidays.

The final phase will then take place from Autumn to winter, where Jubilee Corner will be closed for a "short, concentrated closure to complete final connections.

In response to concerns, Essex and Suffolk Water said the diversions and lengths of the closure were needed for multiple reasons.

They said: "Multiple underground utilities (including gas and power) requiring supervised crossings.

"Narrow rural roads that limit traffic flow when working areas are occupied.

"Need to protect customers’ water supply while switching over to the new mains.

"Requirement to work in phases to minimise disruption to the school, bus routes, and harvest season impacts."

© Eastern Daily Press