Supplies restored after seven water mains burst

Homes and businesses on the outskirts of Southampton have had water supplies restored after seven water mains burst.

Southern Water said on Friday work was taking place to fix the leaks which occured in the Eling, Totton and Marchwood areas, affecting some 40 properties.

It also confirmed later on Friday evening that the Testwood Water Works was operating as normal and producing water.

It said it was currently completing repairs to the last of the seven bursts and all customers had supplies restored.

Water from one of the burst water pipes caused flooding on Thursday afternoon, leading police to warn drivers and residents to avoid the Tide Mill and Eling Toll Bridge area in Totton.

The flooding and repair work in the surrounding roads also forced the closure of the Grade II* listed Eling Tide Mill's visitor centre, cafe and shop, along with the toll bridge.

The Eling Tide Mill Experience said it would remain closed for the weekend.

Posting on social media, David Harrison, ward councillor for Totton on Hampshire County Council, praised the utility company's "swift" response.

He said: "These things cause a massive amount of disruption, with road closures, traffic diversions, impacts on businesses and residential properties.

"I hope that Southern Water will provide information to the public on the cause of this incident/s once the immediate crisis is over."