Diversion routes set up while essential gas mains replacement work took place south of Newport, Essex, have been removed after gas distribution network Cadent completed the first stage of work well ahead of schedule.
On Wednesday 17 July, engineers completed the first stage of work which had seen a section of the B1383 being closed as Cadent decommissioned the current metallic gas pipes – which measure a total of 4km in length and were originally installed in the 1920s and 1950s – and started installing tough new pipes which will last for decades, future proofing the Newport network.
The second phase of work will now see engineers working northbound along London Road in separate phases with the use of multiway lights to keep traffic flowing.
Cadent Site Manager, Lee Midson, said: “We appreciate that the first stage of these works has been disruptive to residents and road users, but safety was always the key priority.
“Having the road closed has allowed us to work quickly and ahead of schedule, allowing us to re-open the road almost a month earlier than originally planned.
“The next stage of work does mean that we will be working in the village, but by using multiway traffic lights, we will be able to keep traffic moving while continuing to work safely.
“I’d like to thank residents for all their patience and understanding. This is all about keeping everyone safe.
“We are conscious of the disruption roadworks cause and we will be in regular contact with the Highways Authority to keep them updated on our work which we will always complete as quickly and as safely as we can."
Due to the nature of the work taking place, there will be times when the gas supply will be interrupted to properties. 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. This will be for a short period only. Gas supply is usually restored on the same day it goes off.
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.
*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.
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.
*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.
0797 404 7450
