Morrison Water Services deploys trenchless technology to fix leaking water main under M6 motorway

Morrison Water Services is working with United Utilities to respond to the critical repair operation of a leaking water main under the M6 motorway, near Standish, Wigan, using technology to ensure no impact to road users.

Following the identification of a leak on a 10” water main located beneath the hard shoulder of the southbound carriageway, Morrison Water Services has provided United Utilities with a trusted engineering solution to address the leak.

By using directional drilling, a cutting-edge trenchless technology, major disruption to road users or the water network has been significantly reduced.

This section of the M6, the UK's longest motorway, serves as a crucial component of the national infrastructure, with approximately 175,000 road users relying on it daily. The importance of maintaining uninterrupted traffic flow on this motorway cannot be overstated, and the scale of this repair project reflects its critical nature.

Unlike traditional methods, which require extensive excavations, directional drilling minimises surface disruption meaning the road can remain open. The process involves drilling a pilot hole from a designated entry point to an exit point, after which a new pipe or line is pulled back through the hole.

This engineering approach allows for precise control, enabling the drill to change direction where necessary to avoid underground obstructions, including other services running beneath the motorway.

The use of this advanced technological solution, provided by Morrison Water Services, underscores United Utilities' commitment to carrying out essential maintenance with minimal impact on road users and the surrounding environment.

The new main is now fully operational and de-mobilisation from the site is taking place .

Matthew Poole, Operations Manager at Morrison Water Services, said: “The M6 is a vital artery for both regional and national traffic, and we understand the importance of keeping it operational. We were responsive to the client’s needs and were able to resource the repair with our highly trained operatives.

“Our team worked diligently to ensure that this repair was completed swiftly, with the least possible disruption to motorists, whilst maintaining the highest standards of safety for our team carrying out the works. The use of directional drilling allows us to address the issue efficiently while safeguarding the integrity of the motorway and the environment around it.”

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