Four more weeks of Bouet closure for sewer works

Monday 03 June 2019

Today marks the start of another four week closure of Le Grand Bouet, to allow Guernsey Water to carry out preparations for essential sewer works it will be doing later this year.

It was decided the work needed to be done after an investigation into the water systems some months ago.

Those investigations found the 750mm-diameter sewer to be in poor condition, so, to prevent the need for a full replacement - which would come at a cost of millions of pounds and months of disruption - Guernsey Water has prioritised works to protect and extend the life of the sewer.

This closure will involve the installation of a new three metre deep manhole which will provide access along a 300m section of the sewer.

The road is expected to reopen in approximately four weeks. 

"The sewer in Le Grand Bouet is a major asset within the island’s network, as one of the largest sewers on island. It takes flows from both St Andrew and St Peter Port, maintaining its structural integrity is vital to the sewer infrastructure network and continued wastewater service we provide," Mark Walker, Guernsey Water's Capital Delivery Manager, said.

“We are currently investigating the best alternative for diverting these flows while works are carried out, but it is likely we will need to install a temporary pumping system to reduce the risk of overwhelming existing sewers within the network.”

Le Grand Bouet will be closed for approximately four weeks from today. 

The utility confirmed it is working with businesses in the area to make every effort to limit disruption, including sharing access updates across its social media channels.

Mr Walker added: “Although we appreciate repeat closures of a major road are not ideal, when compared to works that would be required for a complete sewer replacement in the future, lining represents both minimal disruption to islanders and at least 90% cost savings.”

Guernsey Water is anticipating the next closure to take place later in the summer, this will involve the lining of the sewer and will last approximately five weeks, dependent on weather at the time.

Pictured top: Le Grand Bouet.