Anglian Water has begun installing new water pipes along Hitchin Street in Biggleswade as part of a £7.9 million investment to reduce bursts and keep water flowing reliably for decades to come. The programme also includes upgrades to the local water recycling centre, helping to improve the quality of water returned to the River Ivel.

To carry out this work safely, sections of Hitchin Street will need to close at different stages throughout the project, with the first closure in place from 8 June.

The water pipes along Hitchin Street have reached the end of their useful life. This has led to 29 bursts since 2005, which Anglian Water acknowledges has meant low pressure or a loss of supply for some customers. The water company is installing brand-new pipes now, to reduce the chances of future bursts and keep customers’ water supplies flowing as they should.

Work to install the new pipework on Hitchin Street is already underway, starting near the business park. The work will move along the road in sections, progressing towards the Saffron Road and Teal Road junction as the project continues. If everything runs smoothly, it is expected to be completed by the end of September.

To keep everyone safe during the work, traffic lights have been in place on Hitchin Street from 27 April. Road closures will then come into effect from 8 June, starting with the section between Brunel Drive and Windmill View roundabouts.

Matthew Newbold, Customer Experience Specialist for the project, said: “We’re building for better in our region, with a £348 million investment over the next five years to renew more than 1,100 kilometres of water pipes across the East of England. We’re focusing on the pipes that need it most to help reduce leaks and keep water supplies reliable for the future.

“To carry out this work safely, most of it will take place under road closures. If you live within the closure, you’ll still be able to get to your home, although there may be short waits while we make it safe for vehicles to pass. Anyone travelling through the area will need to follow the clearly signposted official diversion route.

“We know this can be disruptive, especially for people who rely on buses, so we’ve worked with Grant Palmer to support an alternative route south of Biggleswade bus station, helping make sure residents from Langford, Henlow and Hitchin can still make essential journeys to Bedford College and Hospital. Thanks to everyone in Biggleswade for bearing with us while we carry out this important work.”

While Anglian Water completes this essential work, customers’ water and sewerage services shouldn’t be affected, and if the water company does need to switch off the water supply for a short time, advance warning will be given. Local residents can access full details about the roadworks plan, diversion route and any frequently asked questions on the project webpage here.

This work follows the driest spring and summer since 1976, with the warmest summer on record for the UK. This meant the majority of Anglian Water’s water resources were at low levels heading into the 2025/26 winter. Fortunately, due to several wet months and careful management, the company has been able to capture and store more rainfall, and most sources are now back to normal levels. Going into the warmer and drier months of the year, Anglian Water teams are continuing to work round the clock to fix pipes, upgrade systems and secure more water for the future. Anglian Water is also encouraging customers to be water-wise ahead of the warmer months, to keep supplies readily available for the region.

The work’s being delivered by Anglian Water's @one Alliance. The Alliance brings together specialist teams from Anglian Water Asset Delivery and partner companies including Balfour Beatty, Barhale, Binnies, Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB), MWH Treatment, Sweco and Skanska to plan, design and deliver major improvements like this for local communities.

Together, they’re helping deliver the biggest upgrade of a generation, supporting local communities, protecting rivers and wildlife, and helping to keep taps flowing and toilets flushing for years to come.