Teams from local contractors Geomarine and Tarmac Services carried out excavation and reinstatement in sections, installing temporary overland pipework to maintain water supplies throughout.
Thousands of paving stones and deep granite cobbles were hand-lifted, cleaned and reinstated to enable safe access to the pipe below.
In total, 300 metres of the old cast-iron main were removed and replaced with a larger, more durable plastic main designed to meet demand for decades to come — futureproofing water supplies in the area for the rest of the century. This follows months of steady progress, despite the exceptionally wet start to the year – with the wettest February since 1976.
‘This was the first major capital project of the year and will ensure a sufficient and resilient water supply for residents and businesses in that part of St Peter Port for the rest of the century,’ said Guernsey Water capital delivery manager Carl Falla.
‘This year we are spending £7.8m. on upgrading ageing water and wastewater systems, all part of our wider investment programme.
‘I want to thank those who live and work in the area for their patience while we undertook this project.
‘Proactive, planned works are always preferable to emergency repairs. This more durable plastic main will reduce the need for emergency interventions in the future.’
The previous main was installed in 1946. It burst twice in 2025, including one incident that flooded a local business, which led to its prioritisation for renewal.
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