Guernsey water main replacement falls behind schedule

Monday, 9 March 2026 10:20

A rainy start to the year has delayed completion of the Old Quarter work but Mill Street is now fully open.

Guernsey Water's main replacement in St Peter Port's Old Quarter has, ironically, fallen behind schedule partly because of the wet weather in January and especially February.

It was due to take around two months, and the utility says that Mill Street, which is the lower section, is now complete and the concrete and granite setts relaid.

Carl Falla from Guernsey Water says the 80-year-old water pipe had to be renewed:

“The existing main in Mansell Street had reached the end of its operational life.

"Replacing it now as part of a planned programme allows us to reduce the likelihood of future bursts and avoid the greater disruption that emergency repairs can cause."

Carl Falla says work is now focused on Upper Mansell Street, which is granite cobbles only, and the process of removing, cleaning and re-laying them is slow and precise work.

"While this is a complex site, particularly due to the cobbled surface and supporting access to businesses, the project is progressing well. We thank everyone for their patience as we undertake this vital work.”

The utility has had to use a temporary surface water main to maintain the supply to flats and shops, and it has also had to create a series of pedestrian diversions.

Guernsey Water is carrying out £130M of investment in its fresh and waste water networks over 12 years, with nearly £8M allocated this year.