Sewer work set to cause more disruption for Newport traders (From South Wales Argus)

Sewer work set to cause more disruption for Newport traders

10:20am Thursday 14th February 2013 in News By David Deans, Reporter

BUSINESSES in Newport city centre are in for yet more disruption after a water company announced it is carrying out essential sewer work in High Street.

Welsh Water said it is to start work this Monday to build two new chambers and replace 15 metres of pipeline between Griffin Street and Bridge Street.

High Street will be closed for the duration of the work, which is needed because of problems with flooding in a number of shops in the road.

Work is expected to take three weeks to complete.

It’s not long since gas works ended in the street in December – the water firm says the water works could not take place at the same time due to risk of contamination.

Buses that had returned to High Street for a trial period had to stop when the gas works started last year.

It is unclear when the buses, which were welcomed by local traders like High Street kiosk owner Jon Powell, are returning.

Mr Powell said he understood why the work needed to be done.

But he said: “It’s just another unfortunate kick in the teeth.We are going to be experiencing yet more disruption.” The improvements aim to deal with sewer blockages and other issues along the street.

Roy Samuel, of Welsh Water, said internal waste-water flooding has had a significant impact.

He said: “We’re very aware of the inconvenience that work such as this may cause but these traffic management measures are necessary to ensure the work is carried out safely and as quickly as possible.

“We will keep local businesses fully informed of our plans and would ask that they bear with us during these essential works. We also thank them in advance for their co-operation.”