Sydling St Nicholas sewer investment will see more than £2 million spent on sealing and repairing the village’s sewer network to reduce flooding risks linked to groundwater infiltration.
Wessex Water has begun work on a major infrastructure programme in the mid-Dorset village, targeting sections of the network where groundwater can enter pipes through cracks and defects.
The project will involve sealing around five kilometres of sewer pipes and more than 400 manhole chambers, with the majority of work expected to be completed by autumn.
Sydling St Nicholas sewer investment targets groundwater infiltration
The Sydling St Nicholas sewer investment focuses on reducing infiltration, where groundwater enters sewer systems and increases the risk of flooding at homes and businesses during periods of heavy rainfall.
By relining and sealing pipes, the scheme aims to improve network resilience, reduce the likelihood of sewer flooding and limit the frequency of storm overflow activation.
The approach forms part of a wider programme of catchment-based improvements across the region.
Building on previous sewer resilience projects
The work follows similar projects delivered by Wessex Water in other vulnerable areas, including a £1.5 million programme in Tilshead, Wiltshire, as well as schemes in Butcombe in Somerset and Fordingbridge on the Dorset/Hampshire border.
These initiatives target locations where sewer systems are particularly susceptible to groundwater infiltration due to local geological conditions.
Eddie Rant, Director of Engineering and Asset Management at Wessex Water, said the project would help improve system performance during periods of wet weather and reduce the risk of pollution incidents.
No-dig techniques to minimise disruption
The project will use trenchless, ‘no-dig’ techniques to reline and seal pipes, reducing the need for excavation and minimising disruption to the local community.
Initial work has already taken place on smaller roads, with more significant activity scheduled between May and July along High Street and Dorchester Road, where rolling closures will be in place.
Additional short-term closures are planned for Back Lane, East Street and Water Side Lane later in the summer.
Community engagement during infrastructure works
Wessex Water has undertaken community engagement ahead of the project, including local drop-in sessions and direct communication with residents.
The company has also confirmed that work schedules will be adjusted to accommodate local events, including the Giants Head Marathon weekend.
For more on infrastructure and network resilience, visit our Water Management coverage.
