Redbridge flyover to close for emergency works this weekend

Significant disruption is expected with Southern Water set to close the eastbound carriageway on the Redbridge Flyover from 9pm on Sunday for leak detection works.

The utility company said that the detection is expected to take "at least a day" and will carry on into Monday.

But if a leak is found, Southern Water said they "expect to be working" in the area for a "number of days", meaning that disruption could last well into next week.

The road closure, shown in red, and the diversion route, shown in blue. (Image: Google Maps) A diversion will be in place, taking drivers off the A35 at the slip road that leads to Redbridge Roundabout and away from the flyover.

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The flyover connects Totton and surrounding areas with the city centre, meaning that these commuters will meet those coming from the M271 on Redbridge Roundabout.

The westbound carriageway will be unaffected.

Works are almost guaranteed to impact those commuting into Southampton as traffic builds up.

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A spokesperson for Southern Water said: “Our teams are investigating a suspected leak on the water pipe which runs underneath the A35 Redbridge flyover in Southampton. 

“To find and fix this problem, we need to close the eastbound carriageway towards Southampton City Centre from 9pm on Sunday evening to allow our teams to carry out investigations. 

“This work is expected to take at least a day and will continue into Monday. 

“Should we find a leak, we expect to be working in this area for a number of days and we would encourage drivers to plan their journeys into Southampton as we recognise this closure will cause significant disruption due to the road being a key route into the city.” 

“If we’re unable to find the leak, we will provide a further update about timescales. 

“We have worked closely with Southampton City Council and Hampshire Highways on a traffic management plan with a diversion being in place at the Redbridge Roundabout from the A35.”

Councillor Richard Young warned people on social media to plan their journeys. (Image: NFDC) Councillor Richard Young, New Forest District Councillor for Marchwood, said on social media: "Diversions around Redbridge roundabout should be possible, however this will undoubtedly lead to queuing traffic and likely delays to road users travelling into and out of Southampton via the A35.

"Please do plan your journeys accordingly from Sunday evening."