Parts of the Greenway are currently closed while Thames Water carries out essential repairs and upgrades to the Northern Outfall Sewer (NOS), one of London's most important pieces of infrastructure.
These works are necessary to maintain and strengthen the Victorian sewer network that serves more than five million people across London and help ensure it remains resilient for future generations.
Newham Council is working closely with Thames Water throughout the project to minimise disruption wherever possible and improve alternative walking and cycling routes during the closure period.
The closure not only facilitates the works to the sewer, but it also keeps a part of it open, meaning that effluent (waste) can still pass through and reach the Beckton sewage treatment works to service properties in the region.
What is Greenway?
The Greenway is one of Newham's most important walking and cycling routes.
It forms part of:
- Cycleway 22
- The Jubilee Greenway
- The Capital Ring walking route
The route runs along the Northern Outfall Sewer, which is owned and operated by Thames Water and is what’s known as a permissive path. Because the Greenway sits above critical sewer infrastructure, Thames Water must occasionally close sections to carry out maintenance, inspections and repairs.
Why is the Greenway Closed?
Thames Water is carrying out major repairs and strengthening works to the Northern Outfall Sewer and the supporting bridge structures at Manor Road and Corporation Street.
The programme is designed to:
- Repair aging infrastructure dating back to the Victorian era.
- Improve resilience against future population growth.
- Future-proof the sewer network for the next 120 years.
- Ensure the safe operation of infrastructure serving more than five million Londoners.
Which Sections are Closed?
The Greenway is currently closed between:
Channelsea Path and Upper Road
to allow Thames Water to safely carry out essential works.
Closure areas may change as the project progresses.
Residents are encouraged to check the latest information before travelling.
Closure Map
How Long Will the Closure Last?
The repair programme began in September 2024.
Current information from Thames Water indicates that the Greenway closure is expected to remain in place while essential works are completed, with activity continuing through 2028.
The Council will continue to publish updates as works progress.
Diversion Routes
Clearly signed diversion routes are in place for:
- Cyclists
- Pedestrians
- Wheelchair users
- Other Greenway users
Please follow on-site signage and allow additional journey time when travelling through the area.
Diversion Route Map
Improvements Being Delivered by Newham Council
As soon as the closure proposals were identified, Newham Council began working with Thames Water to improve alternative routes for residents wherever possible.
This includes:
- Reviewing cycling connections.
- Improving diversion routes.
- Enhancing safety measures where possible.
- Identifying opportunities for temporary infrastructure improvements.
- Seeking to minimise the duration and extent of closures.
About the Northern Outfall Sewer
The Northern Outfall Sewer is one of London's most important engineering achievements.
Designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette in the 1860s, it transformed public health in London by helping to eliminate diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
Today it continues to carry wastewater across east London towards Beckton Sewage Treatment Works and remains a vital part of London's infrastructure network.
Historic Infrastructure
Northern Outfall Sewer Today
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't the works be carried out while keeping the Greenway open?
The works involve repairs to critical infrastructure and bridge structures. Closure is required to maintain public safety while construction activity is underway.
Who owns the Greenway?
The Greenway sits on the Northern Outfall Sewer and is operated by Thames Water, which has the right to close the route when maintenance works are required.
Is the closure temporary?
Yes. The closure is required while infrastructure repairs are completed. The route will reopen when it is safe to do so.
The alternative routes aren’t the easiest to walk and cycle, are these being looked at?
Yes. The Council is proposing to improve cycling and walking routes for the diversionary route, this will be coming out to public consultation soon and would appreciate your feedback. We will post links to the consultation page when it is live.
Will the Council receive updates?
Yes. Newham Council continues to work closely with Thames Water and will update this page as further information becomes available.
Latest Project Information
For the most up-to-date information, including:
- Closure maps
- Programme updates
- Diversion details
- Construction timelines
- Frequently asked questions
Visit the Thames Water project page
For project-related enquiries contact Thames Water below:
Telephone: 0800 316 9800
