Work to replace a major water main in the Chantry and Stoke Park area of Ipswich is due to start on Tuesday.

Anglian Water is installing a new main to serve thousands of properties in that part of town. The whole project is costing £3.4m and will not be completed until the end of summer next year.

It will replace an old main which can lead to water being discoloured. It is one of the largest investment projects the company will undertake in Suffolk in 2017, with around 14km of water pipe to be replaced.

Mark Pryke, Anglian Water’s Network Manager for Suffolk, said: “Historically, there have been problems in the area with customers noticing discoloration of the water and while we’ve been keeping a close eye on it and taking steps to manage it, we’ve moved as quickly as possible to get this scheme underway.

“It’s been a large scheme in the planning, and we’re pleased to be starting this permanent solution for our customers.”

Discoloration in the water is caused by a build up of iron sediment in the pipes, although it is not a risk to human health, Anglian Water has been regularly flushing the pipes to prevent a repeat of the issue – but now a long-term solution is needed.

Mr Pryke said: “The existing pipework has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced. By doing such a thorough job now and laying new sections of pipe we will minimise the chance of discoloration in the future.”

On Tuesday work stats on Mallard Way from Tern Road to Stone Lodge Lane West.

Further work along Belstead Road, Luther Road, Stoke Park Drive and Fountains Road is scheduled to start early in May. While the work takes place there will be some traffic lights, lane closures and traffic diversions in place.

Mr Pryke added: “We’ll be using advanced main-laying techniques wherever the ground conditions allow keeping disruption to a minimum for customers.

“Work will move around the Belstead area over the next year. Some lane and road closures may be needed for safety reasons but this will not be done without plenty of notice and access will be maintained for residents and emergency vehicles.”

Anglian Water has pledged to keep residents updated on the scheme’s progress with regular newsletters, and videos and images on social media.