Southern Water – Andover Main Link Proposed Underground Water Pipeline

April 22, 2026

We have received an update from Southern Water regarding their proposed 22.8km underground water pipeline to connect the Winchester and Andover water supply areas.  Their update is as follows –

The full planning applications can be viewed on the planning department websites for Winchester City Council (Ref no. 26/00379/FUL) and Test Valley Borough Council (Ref no. 26/00378/FULLN). The submissions follow a detailed engagement process which included community drop-in events to gather feedback from stakeholders and local communities, as well as further environmental surveys and technical design development.

Why the scheme matters

The Andover Link Main is all about making sure our communities have a reliable water supply for the future. Once built, it will:

  • Help keep water supplies resilient during droughts
  • Reduce the pressure on the River Test and River Itchen
  • Improve long-term water security in an area that’s already water stressed
  • Sit completely underground, with a 100-year design life
  • Deliver at least 10% biodiversity net gain and restore all vegetation we need to remove during construction

Ben Ring, our Major Projects Director, said: “The Andover Link Main is a key part of our plans to transform how we source, treat and supply water across Hampshire. Once complete, the pipeline will enable us to transfer up to 15 million litres of water a day to where it’s needed most – tackling water shortages and protecting Hampshire’s precious chalk streams.”

What’s happening now

If the scheme is approved, we’d expect to start some enabling work, such as tree clearance, later in 2026. Construction would likely begin in Winter 2027, and the pipeline would go into service by Spring 2030.

We know construction can be disruptive but we’re doing everything we can to minimise this.

Keeping you updated

We’ll make sure you stay up to date throughout the construction process. You can expect:

  • Regular updates, including how we’re protecting the environment
  • More drop-ins and information events before work begins
  • Early notice of any road closures or traffic changes
  • Clear ways to get in touch if you have questions or concerns

We want everyone along the route to feel informed, involved and reassured that we’re taking your community and environment seriously at every stage.

There’s lots more information at: Andover Link Main – Southern Water but if you have any questions – please let us know.

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