Wokingham Borough Connect
 What's coming up
We're hoping that the weather will remain drier next week as we continue to install a new drainage network on the site. As you can see in the photo above, part of these works includes installing new manholes and sealing in the pipes.
We'll also be doing some preparation works along the footways around the crossroads to allow new kerb lines to be dug out. Pedestrian access will remain at all times including access to all the local businesses while these works take place.
 What's been happening so far
Installing the new drainage system is a critical part of this project as we aim to reduce ongoing flooding issues within the area as part of these improvement works.
We've uncovered a lot of electrical, gas and water pipes that were not visible on any plans provided by the utility companies. This meant we had to hand dig rather than use machines in many areas to ensure the safety of our team and to prevent damage to these vital services.
The new drainage system has now been updated to accommodate these pipes and cables. Challenges like this are common and were anticipated, and we continue to progress despite these obstacles.
 SGN works taking place in the area
New Wokingham Road, Wokingham
Due to SGN completing gas mains upgrade works ahead of schedule on Nine Mile Ride, works are now taking place on a new section of pipe in New Wokingham Road.
This stretch of road has been prone to gas leaks in the past and SGN hopes these replacement works will prevent emergency unplanned works in the future, as they cause disruption on our road network.
Works will take place from 7 March for approximately seven weeks with rolling temporary traffic lights in place between Nine Mile Ride and Oaklands Lane.
Updates regarding the project can be found on the SGN website or you can contact them directly on 0800 912 1700 or at customer@sgn.co.uk. These additional works will be completed in the time frame that was set aside for Nine Mile Ride.
Barkham Ride, Finchampstead and Finchampstead Road, Wokingham
Works due to start on Barkham Ride this week have been postponed until 11 March as SGN work to deal with low gas pressure on Finchampstead Road was prioritised. Temporary traffic lights are currently in place on Finchampstead Road between Hart Dyke Close and Russley Gardens until 11 March.
 Support your local businesses
We're working with local business owners to encourage everyone to support shopping and doing business locally during the improvement works. We've put up extra signs telling drivers that the businesses are still open and have started a social media campaign.
Our first of several spotlights falls on Cresswells Garage, pictured above, which has been proudly serving the community in all weathers for just over 100 years.
If you live in this area, or use the local businesses when you're visiting, please keep giving them your valued trade.
 Meet Project Manager Dean
Have you met our project manager Dean while out visiting the businesses at California Crossroads?
Dean is working hard with the team to assist with any issues or concerns that residents and local businesses may have, while ensuring the project is kept on schedule. He is enjoying building relationships within the community and has received a lot of positive feedback.
Dean has been with the council for over two years now, leading on many projects including Thames Valley Park and Ride. Prior to joining our team, he worked for Hampshire Council and have over 25 years experience in the industry.
If you have any questions, you can reach out to Dean on site or alternately, you can send an email through to the team for his attention.
 Keeping everyone up to speed
We hope you are finding these updates on our California Crossroad project useful. We'd really appreciate you forwarding this newsletter to anyone you think would be interested in the progress we are making and the background to the project.
If this email has been forwarded to you from a family member, friend or neighbour, you can sign up to receive this directly from us every week. You will also receive an introductory newsletter immediately when you sign up that provides all the background information about the project.
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