Thames Water is to begin work to future-proof water supply in central London, upgrading 235 metres of water pipes between Prince Albert Road and Baker Street.

Phase one of the £20 million project will involve an 8-week lane closure on Prince Albert Road, just outside London Zoo, as a team of eight engineers begin to replace pipes that are around 150 years old. Work will take place between Townshend Road and Culworth Street, with teams on site 7am to 7pm, Monday to Friday, and 7am to 1pm on Saturday.

The upgrades are part of the company's commitment to fix its leakiest pipes in London, which will help Thames Water to save 27.8 megalitres of water every single day, equivalent to 11 Olympic sized swimming pools.

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Martin Padley, London Water Director, Thames Water, said: "We have more to do when it comes to driving down leakage. That’s why we are prioritising upgrades to our largest and leakiest Victorian pipes, such as those found running below Baker Street, which are over 150 years old.

"We know how busy London streets are and want to apologise to motorists and residents for any disruption caused while we carry out this essential work. These pipes run right through the heart of the Capital and are critical to protecting water supply for customers and businesses for years to come."

Thames Water will carry out the upgrades in phases from April 2024 through to May 2025, with the work resulting in fewer bursts and leaks on some of London’s busiest roads. The company has partnered with engineering firm Murphy to help deliver the project.

The new mains pipes will also be able to carry more water around the city, helping to meet future demand. London’s population is forecast to grow to 12 million by 2050, along with hotter and drier summers anticipated.