Road shut for 15 weeks to install reservoir barriers

Thames Water says the barriers will prevent vehicles from entering Grand Junction Reservoir and contaminating the water

Work to install 180m of crash barriers around a south-west London reservoir will close a key stretch of road for 15 weeks when they start on Monday.

Thames Water said the £2.1m project will make Grand Junction Reservoir in Hampton, Richmond, safer for the public, as it will prevent vehicles or debris from falling into the reservoir in an accident and contaminating the water.

During the works, the westbound lane of the A308 on Upper Sunbury Road, from Percy Road to Hampton Care Home, will be closed with diversion routes in place. Access will be maintained for residents, businesses and emergency vehicles.

Thames Water apologised for the disruption that may be caused by the "crucial" project.

According to crashmap.co.uk, which records reports of crashes where someone has been injured, there were 10 crashes on Upper Sunbury Road that runs alongside the reservoir from 2019 to 2023.

They include, in 2021, two people from separate vehicles suffering serious injuries.

In 2019, injuries were reported when two vehicles left the carriageway on the reservoir side.

Thames Water said there may be more noise and traffic during the works, but that it would install sound barriers where needed.

Delivery director Roselyn Unegbu said: "Upgrading our infrastructure and assets is crucial to this project. It will mean improved security for our customers as we continue to deliver high-quality drinking water.

"We're sorry for the disruption that may be caused during the project and have worked with all stakeholders to minimise this, ensuring residents are able to continue with their daily activities as best as possible."