Latest update
South West Water have taken the difficult decision to postpone the planned sewer renewal works in Modbury. Due to circumstances beyond our control we have been working hard to find a replacement contractor in time to meet the programmed works, however at the current time we are not able to instruct the works without a delay to our proposed delivery programme and the impact on the residents, businesses and commuters. So in order to provide the most efficient and successful scheme for everyone involved we have concluded that this is the best decision in the interests of our customers.
We intend to re-submit the applications for January 2024 and our Operations teams will continue to monitor the network and deploy any mitigation measures when necessary.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this postponement, but we feel that under the circumstances this is the most positive course of action at this time.
Updated: 22 Decemeber 2022
Modbury sewer replacement
The Situation
Across the South West our sewerage system is showing its age and is in need of upgrading. We’re busy repairing, replacing and enlarging a lot of the sewers to help increase their capacity and efficiency. This essential work will also help reduce the risk of spills and pollutions from these assets.
What this means in Modbury
In Modbury, there’s a gravity main running through the centre of the village which is in need of maintenance. A gravity main is a sewer running downhill and the sewage is moved through the pipe by gravity.
Due to its age, this sewer in Modbury needs repairing, and some sections need a total replacement. This will involve extensive work over 5 months starting in January 2023.
The work will also involve road closures through the village. The largest of these road closures is the main road through the village which will be closed for three months. The below image shows where those closures are, and the estimated dates for which they will be in place.
Road closures:
- Poundwell Street : 9 January to 18 January 2023
- Church Street and Broad Street: 18 January to 17 April 2023
- Back Street: 18 April to 21 April 2023
- Church lane: 24 April to12 May 2023
- Moon Lane: 15 May to 26 May 2023
We are aware this will bring a lot of disruption, so we’ve worked closely with local businesses to help minimise the impact our work will have to their services. Access to all businesses and the village car park will be maintained throughout this time.
We have also identified the safest diversion route that will be suitable for all vehicle types.
Latest News
We held an information drop-in meeting on the 22 November 2022 at The Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth II Recreation Ground.
Following comments from residents and traders, South West Water, Modbury Parish Council, and Devon Highways, we're working towards a preferred solution for enhanced traffic management during the sewer renewal works.
Plans are being submitted and will be published following approval.
Going forwards
We have a dedicated Customer Liaison Officer, Steve Manning, who will be working closely with the Modbury community during this time as we prepare for these works. He will also be the main contact for residents while the work is being completed. You can get in touch with him on 07583 221846 or by email: stevemanning@hydrotech.uk.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is happening in Modbury?
A: As part of an ongoing commitment to protect the environment, reduce pollution and protect the bathing waters in the area we will be working in Modbury to upgrade parts of the sewerage network.
The work will involve installing new pipes to replace ageing sewers in poor condition
Q: When will this work take place?
A: Works in the roads are expected to begin in January 2023, and is expected to take around five months to complete
Q: Why is this work needed?
A: Many of the sewers in Modbury date from Victorian times and, due to the nature of their construction, have started to fail and need replacing
Q: Will there be any road closures during the works?
A: Due to the location of the sewers we will have to close the roads we are working on as it will not be possible to pass by the works safely. A list of closures is available on our web site
Q: What about access for bin collections and emergency services?
A: Emergency services and all other service providers have been informed of the work so the necessary arrangements can be put in place.
Q: Will there be any parking restrictions during this period?
A: We will need some temporary parking restrictions to allow traffic to flow freely. Please observe any restrictions or traffic management in place to avoid congestion
Q: Will I have access to my property during your works?
A: We will ensure that pedestrian access to your property is always maintained.
Q: Will my wastewater drainage be affected during this work?
A: We do not anticipate any need for restrictions on usage.
Q: Will there be a smell as you are working on a sewer?
A: The main will be diverted during the works so it is not expected to cause any odour issues.
Q: Where can I find more information?
A: If you need advice or assistance, please call our contact our Customer Liaison Officer on 07583 221846 between the hours of 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. For emergencies only outside of these times, please contact our Services Helpline on 0344 346 2020.