A multi-million-pound engineering project to secure the gas supply for tens of thousands of homes in Cumbria is progressing well and remains on track for completion later this year.
Cadent, which manages the local gas distribution network, is installing 850 metres of new pipeline, mostly in fields beside Ulverston Canal.
A key milestone has just been reached, following the successful boring of a 73-metre-long tunnel beneath the waterway.
The new pipeline will create a safer, more resilient route for gas to reach homes, hospitals, schools and other essential facilities across the region, including Barrow-in-Furness.
Once operational, it will replace the existing pipe beneath the canal footpath, which is showing signs of deterioration.
Recent weeks have seen significant progress, with a large section of the new pipe now buried in the fields adjacent to the canal. A huge crane was recently brought on site to lift specialist machinery into place, drawing attention from passers-by and canal users.
Paula Steer, Network Director for Cadent in the North West, said:
We’re really pleased with how the project is progressing. Completing the tunnel beneath the canal in such a short time was a major achievement, and we’re now well into the next phase of laying the new pipe.
People using the canal footpath have been fascinated by what’s going on. Our engineers have often taken a few moments to chat with walkers and businesses, explaining what the work involves and why it’s so important.
It’s been great to see that level of interest and curiosity from the community.
This is a crucial investment in the long-term safety and reliability of the gas network in this part of Cumbria. I want to thank the local community for their continued support and patience as we carry out this important work.
United Living Infrastructure Services (ULIS) is the main contractor delivering the project, working alongside specialist tunnelling contractor Joseph Gallagher Ltd. Following years of meticulous planning, the team has plotted a project timeline that will see them off-site in time for nesting season, while ensuring no disruption to other wildlife in the vicinity of the site, including otters and bats.
Updates are posted at https://cadentgas.com/ulverston.
Cadent manages more than 21,000 miles of gas distribution pipes in North West England, ensuring a safe gas supply 24/7, 365 days a year, for 2.7 million customers. This energy is vital for heating homes, powering industry, and driving turbines that generate electricity when demand is high.
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.
0797 069 4897
