There are concerns South East Water may again have to dig up the A287 Frensham Road where emergency repairs required a three-week road closure this summer.

Residents have reported a fresh water leak opposite the Ridgeway School, just above the site of the major repairs carried out by South East Water from late-July to mid-August. 

The new leak is on the southbound side of the road, just at the point where the road dips downwards, with a sheet of water flowing across the road and down Gravel Hill.

Lower Bourne villagers have expressed concerns this could cause an accident blackspot if repairs are not carried out before the temperature drops this winter.

South East Water says it is aware of the new leak.

Paul Mann, distribution manager for South East Water, added: “A technician has visited the site to assess the extent of the leak. It has been raised as an urgent repair and we are currently liaising with the local highways authority to allow us access to fix the pipe.

“Unfortunately, leaks and bursts like this do happen on our vast network of underground pipes, which spans more than 9,000 miles.

“These are assessed and repaired in order of priority. We are very sorry for any disruption caused to motorists and residents.”

The road was previously closed at Gravel Hill between the Ridgway and Middle Bourne Lane on Monday, July 25 for an emergency water leak repair.

It reopened on Monday, August 15 at the culmination of resurfacing works, after the water company successfully installed a 50-metre long section of new pipe along Frensham Road.