27/08/2026
SHARED ON BEHALF OF THAMES WATER
We're continuing our essential work in Arborfield and the surrounding area, where we're installing a new trunk water main along Bearwood Road, Barkham Road and Langley Common Road. This investment will help strengthen the local water network, reduce the risk of future leaks and bursts, and support the growing needs of the local community.
We've completed our work between Highlands Avenue and The Lilacs and are now nearing completion of the section between The Lilacs and Barkham Road. As we prepare to move into the next stage of the project, we'd like to provide an update on progress and what you can expect next.
Project progress
Since work began earlier this year, we've installed over 600 metres of new water main and are now completing the remaining activities on Bearwood Road before progressing to the next section of the project.
As we complete the current section of the project near Barkham Road Roundabout, some temporary changes to local traffic management will be required. Access to homes will continue to be maintained throughout. Thank you for your continued patience and support while we carry out these improvements.
What's happening next?
Before work moves fully into the next phase, we'll be completing an essential connection near Barkham Road Roundabout. To safely complete this connection, we need to carry out work across the carriageway. As a result, the previous lane closure and traffic light arrangement is no longer suitable and has been replaced with a temporary road closure within the immediate work area. This provides the safest environment for residents, road users and our workforce while the connection is completed. These arrangements were introduced from 25 August 2026 and are currently expected to remain in place until approximately 8 September 2026, subject to operational progress.
Work is then expected to begin around the Bearwood Road and Barkham Road Roundabout from 1 September 2026, before progressing along Barkham Road towards Barkham Street Roundabout (The Bull Pub).
What this means for you
To safely complete the remaining works near Barkham Road Roundabout, temporary traffic management changes will be required.
• The current lane closure and traffic light arrangement has been replaced by a temporary road closure within the immediate work area.
• Residents within the closure area will continue to be able to access and leave their homes throughout the works.
• Road users and residents travelling to and from The Lilacs will be directed via the upper section of Bearwood Road towards Sindlesham, rather than through the roundabout area.
• Clearly signed diversion routes will be provided to guide road users through the area.
• Access for businesses, emergency services, deliveries and bin collections will be maintained wherever possible.
• You may notice additional construction activity, vehicle movements and some noise while works take place.
• Your water supply is expected to remain unaffected.
These arrangements have been developed in consultation with the local transport and highways authority and are considered the safest and most effective way to complete this section of the project.
Looking ahead to Phase 3
As work moves into the next phase of the project, traffic management arrangements will also change.
Current plans include:
• Temporary two-way traffic lights around the Bearwood Road and Barkham Road Roundabout from 1 September 2026.
• A full road closure between Bearwood Road Roundabout and Barkham Street Roundabout (The Bull Pub) from 14 September 2026 for approximately eight weeks, subject to operational progress.
• Clearly signed diversion routes throughout the closure period.
We'll continue to keep residents, businesses and stakeholders updated if these arrangements change.
Shuttle bus service
We recognise the planned road closure will affect local bus services that usually use Barkham Road.
To help minimise disruption, a dedicated shuttle bus service is expected to operate from 14 September 2026 while the closure is in place. The service is currently planned to run Monday to Friday between 6:30am and 6:30pm and will be operated by Reading Buses.
For the latest information on timetables, route changes, temporary bus stop locations and service updates, please visit the Reading Buses website.
Have a question?
If you have any questions or concerns, please call us on 0800 316 9800 and quote
the reference number at the top of this letter. You can also email our Customer Team at [email protected].
You can also visit our dedicated Arborfield Trunk Main project webpage by simply searching for "Arborfield Trunk Main" on the Thames Water website.
Need extra support?
If you or someone you know needs a little extra support, our free Priority Services Register can help us provide additional support when it's needed. Friends, family or carers can also register on behalf of someone who may benefit. To find out more, visit thameswater.co.uk/priorityservices or call us on 0800 009 3652.
Thank you
George Allaway - Thames Water
Customer Experience Coordinator
https://www.thameswater.co.uk/about-us/projects/improvements-in-your-area/arborfield-trunk-main
Our Priority Services include easier-to-read bills, doorstep password, dedicated phone number and supply interruption assistance.
