Southern Water says Winchester Christmas tree is ready to be installed

Southern Water undertook a major investigation after flooding caused sewage to burst through a number of drains around Winchester High Street.

The operation disrupted plans for Winchester’s 38ft Christmas tree to go up on Monday, November 7. But now work has been completed a stand surrounded by metal barriers has been placed ready for the tree.

READ MORE: Southern Water pledge over ground water pipe will run through Little Minster Street in Winchester

Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) hope the tree will be installed on Sunday, November 13 morning ahead of the lights switch-on event on Thursday, November 17.

BID manager Sarah Davis said: “Everyone looks forward to the Winchester Christmas tree and the festive lights coming to life, it really does signify the start of Christmas in the city.  This year the tree delivery may be a little later than we planned but it’s still in good time for everyone to see it in the run up to the busiest time of the year. 

“We look forward to seeing everyone on the Broadway on Thursday from 4pm until 7pm when the lights will be turned on.”

The overground pump installed in Little Minster Street to prevent further flooding has now been removed. Southern Water shared images of what’s blocking up the pipes which included large fat deposits.

SEE ALSO: Southern Water shares images of fatbergs clogging Winchester's sewers

Head of wastewater networks, Alex Saunders, has since been urging residents to put their food waste in the bin and not down the sink to reduce blockages.

A spokesperson for the water company said: “Work was quite complex and a huge amount of fat was removed.”

Southern Water is expected to give a fuller statement.