Water main works causes disruption in Central Park, Dagenham

Minor disruption is expected and some football pitches will be out of bounds as essential works start to replace a water main underneath Central Park in Dagenham.

Works in the park by Essex & Suffolk Water have now begun and are expected to be completed by Christmas.

The water main runs from the corner of the park by Bell Farm Avenue to a valve near the car park next to the tennis courts. Works will take place along a 600m long narrow strip of land between these points.

Disruption to park users will be kept to a minimum, with footpaths diverted wherever possible. The area of excavation will be fenced off to protect the public.

The works will not affect Dagenham Rugby Club’s pitch. Some football pitches will be out of bounds, but any booked matches will be held on alternative pitches.

Barking and Dagenham council leader cllr Liam Smith said: “These works are essential, and I would ask park users to be patient while they are carried out. Although there will be minor inconvenience, we’re confident that it will be kept to an absolute minimum.”

Carolyn Archat, Mains Project Manager for Essex & Suffolk Water, added: “We will be working hard to minimise the disruption as we install this essential new main.

“We’ve been closely liaising with the council to ensure that our work allows the local community to continue to enjoy the park, which we appreciate is an important area for many sporting clubs and other leisure activities.”