High street roadworks finish early

Traders and local residents breathed a collective sigh of relief today when the roadworks scheme in Heathfield town centre finished – two days ahead of schedule.

Some businesses say they suffered significant losses during the closure and diversions have caused traffic chaos in the surrounding area. Many of the traders joined in The Heathfield News’ #ShopHeathfield campaign by displaying posters in their shop windows and sharing posts on social media.

Work to reconstruct the high street finished early despite the discovery during the work of a significant issue with a leaking water main which threatened ‘serious failure’ to the road if not dealt with. Elsewhere along the high street contractors discovered underlying weaknesses in the foundations of the road, many of which resulted from previous utility company repairs.

East Sussex Highways said this highlighted why the scheme had to be completed before severe winter weather took hold otherwise it would have led to more complex, costly and disruptive roadworks.

The project has seen the high street reconstructed and resurfaced between the fire station and library, and a section of pavement resurfaced. New street lights were also installed, taking advantage of the road closure.

Cllr Nick Bennett, East Sussex County Council lead member for transport and environment, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to finish early, despite a significant issue with a leaking water main. The water leak had led to part of the foundation of the road being washed away, which would have led to serious failure, and more disruption for traders and residents, if we hadn’t fixed it now.

“By working in collaboration with utility companies we’ve been able to repair the water main and a number of voids beneath the road and complete the work, which has created a safer, smoother and more attractive high street. We know the work has caused some disruption for town centre businesses and we really appreciate their patience and understanding over the past three and a half weeks.

“We’ve received some really positive feedback from traders and residents about the professional and considerate way our contractors went about their business and I’d like to thank everyone involved for their efforts. I hope people in Heathfield are pleased with their new road which has really improved the look of the High Street as we head into the Christmas season.”