Wokingham

Motorists coming into Wokingham from the south of the district can now enjoy a smoother run into the town after the A321 Finchampstead Road reopened to traffic yesterday (June 8).

“This is really good news for everyone. We know there have been difficulties over recent months whilst the road has been closed but I’m pleased that the newly resurfaced road is now once again open to traffic,” said Wokingham District Council’s executive member for highways and transport Cllr Anthony Pollock.

“The council has worked closely with South East Water to complete the work as quickly as possible and this has resulted in the work being completed 10 days ahead of schedule.”

South East Water has been carrying out much-needed remedial work to a water main under the Finchampstead Road, resulting the road being closed since February 27. It was vital that the work was carried out in order to prevent burst pipes and water leaks causing major disruption to road users and inconvenience to Wokingham residents. Much of the work was carried out over the school break at Easter, when traffic flow was lower. The water company also agreed to Wokingham council’s request to carry out evening and Saturday work where appropriate.

Wokingham council worked in parallel with South East Water to resurface the road and improve highway drainage so that a separate period of disruption was avoided.

“I would like to thank everyone for bearing with us whilst the road was closed,” said Cllr Pollock.

Spokesperson for South East Water Jane Gould said: “South East Water would like to thank Wokingham District Council and Clancy Docwra, the contractors, for their co-operation in enabling this project to be completed ahead of schedule.”

The free Thursday and Friday car parking in Wokingham town centre introduced in April for the duration of the road closure will now cease. Normal charges will be in force from next week (Monday June 12, 2006)

Wokingham District Council