Thames Water has closed a road in Wallingford for the sixth occasion within two years to carry out essential repairs to a damaged sewer.

Hithercroft Road was shut to all traffic on Friday, August 14, as engineers worked to address the failure in the drainage system.

Approximately 28 tanker vehicles have been deployed to the site to manually transfer sewage and wastewater while the damaged pipe section is isolated and repaired.

The operation is expected to continue until Friday, August 28.

The ongoing works have significantly impacted businesses located along the affected route.

The Coffee Stop kiosk, operated by Pamela Barrie on Hithercroft Road, has experienced considerable difficulties as the closure blocks the primary access route from the town centre to the premises, requiring customers to use an alternative bypass route.

Barrie expressed frustration at the repeated disruption, noting that the current closure marks the third consecutive year that works have been carried out on the road.

She reported that interactions with workers on site had been confusing, with conflicting information provided about the project timeline and scope.

The business owner indicated that last year proved particularly challenging, with construction activity occurring intermittently over approximately nine months, and described the accumulated stress as nearly forcing her to cease trading.

The continuous presence of tanker vehicles, whose engines run throughout the day, has generated noise and emissions that Barrie stated have further affected her ability to operate the outdoor venue.

She noted a decline in customer visits as a direct consequence of both the road closure and the ongoing disturbance from the works.

Hithercroft Road and the adjacent St John’s Road have experienced multiple closures in recent years.

In December 2024, raw sewage escaped onto the carriageway.

The road was subsequently closed indefinitely in January 2025 to address the leak.

Further restrictions followed in February 2025 to repair a burst water main, in June 2025 for replacement of aging infrastructure, and in July 2025 to rectify damage attributed to a housebuilder.

Thames Water confirmed that engineers are working on St John’s Road to repair a section of sewer where leaving the damage unaddressed could elevate pollution risks during the winter months.

The company stated that tanker vehicles are being employed to safely remove and transport wastewater while the pipework is isolated and restored.

The repair programme is scheduled for completion by August 28.

The utility expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and thanked local residents and business operators for their tolerance during the essential work.