Bildeston B1115 Road Closure Begins for £1 Million Water Infrastructure Upgrade

Anglian Water has commenced a five-month water infrastructure upgrade project on the B1115 High Street in Bildeston, beginning June 22, 2026. The £1 million scheme involves installing one kilometre of new water pipes across seven phases, with work scheduled for completion by November. The aging pipes have experienced over 30 bursts in the past five years, prompting the infrastructure replacement to reduce future service disruptions and ensure reliable water supply to the village.

The road closure will be implemented in sections to allow construction, with traffic diversions in place for vehicles while pedestrian access and local businesses remain operational. The project begins with traffic lights at the Ipswich Road junction from June 22 to 26, followed by phased closures moving progressively northward through the village. Final phases extend into early 2027, with the last closure scheduled from January 11 to February 26.

Anglian Water emphasized that water and sewer services will not be affected during the works, though advance notice will be provided if any service interruptions become necessary. The authority stressed the importance of the upgrade, noting that the East of England is both the driest region in the country and one of the fastest growing, with 700,000 new residents expected over the next two decades. This project forms part of Anglian Water's broader £427 million investment programme to future-proof the Suffolk water network and meet growing demand.