A Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, is preparing to carry out a gas mains replacement project in Bury St Edmunds to secure safe and reliable gas supplies to the town.
This essential work is part of a collaborative working project with Suffolk Highways which is carrying out major re-modelling works of the Tollgate Gyratory system. By working together, we will utilise traffic management that is already in place to undertake some of our upgrade works thereby avoiding further disruption to road users in the future.
Cadent’s scheme will involve the decommissioning of over 1500 metres of ageing metallic gas pipes which were installed in the 1950s and installing tough new plastic ones which will last for decades, future-proofing the Bury St Edmunds network.
The project is part of a £91m investment this year, which will see more than 300km of pipes upgraded in the East of England.
Starting on Monday 11 August, the project is taking place along Fornham Road between the A14 flyover and Tollgate Lane. The scheme will be taking place in phases with the use of traffic lights for the majority of the works. A road closure will be in use when the work reaches Tollgate Lane.
Given the scale of the project, Cadent’s work is expected to last for two months with completion due towards the middle of October. Suffolk Highways anticipate commencing their Tollgate Gyratory works at the end of September, with these set to complete in early summer 2026.
Cadent Project Manager, Gavin Stuart, said: “We have a responsibility to make sure every property that uses gas has access to it 24/7, 365 days a year and these essential works will mean that we continue to deliver on that promise.
By working alongside the local highways team as they complete resurfacing work, we can hopefully minimise disruption to residents and businesses as we carry out these essential works.
We know it’s far from ideal to have any sort of traffic management in place in what is a busy area, but we have worked hard with the local authorities to create a plan that keeps traffic flowing and maintains access for local businesses and residents.
Due to the nature of the work taking place, there will be times when the gas supply will be interrupted to properties. This will be for a short period only. Gas supply is usually restored on the same day it goes off. If you are a resident and your gas supply will be affected as part of this work, our team will contact you directly to deal with any enquiries.
If you smell gas, always ring the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999*, day or night. Do not assume it is related to this work; it may not be and needs to be checked.
Cadent is the UK’s largest gas distribution network with a 200-year legacy. We are in a unique position to build on strong foundations whilst encouraging the curiosity to think differently and the courage to embrace change. Day to day we continue to operate, maintain and innovate the UK’s largest gas network, transporting gas safely and protecting people in an emergency. Our skilled engineers and specialists remain committed to the communities we serve, working day and night to ensure gas reaches 11 million homes from Cumbria to North London and the Welsh Borders to East Anglia, to keep your energy flowing.
Here at Cadent we support the Government’s plans to reach Net Zero by 2050. That means we’re backing the introduction of hydrogen as a low carbon alternative to natural gas for the future. We know people love the controllability of gas and, with our network already in place, it makes sense to switch to the lower carbon alternative offered by hydrogen, which we believe can keep homes and businesses warm for generations to come.
Cadent manages the national gas emergency service free phone line on behalf of the gas industry - 0800 111 999*
Cadent Gas Ltd is owned by a consortium of global investors.
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