Work is set to begin on Monday 17 March to replace ageing gas pipes in Station Road, Fulbourn, as engineers from Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, take action to secure safe and reliable gas supplies.
The planned activity will involve the decommissioning of the current metallic gas pipes – which measure 1km and were originally installed in 1934 - and installing tough new pipes which will last for decades, future proofing the Fulbourn network.
Following consultation with Fulbourn Parish Council, South Cambs District Council and Cambridgeshire County Council, Cadent has agreed to carry out this essential work between Monday 17 March and Friday 13 June, so that the upgrade can be completed ahead of both the school summer holidays and the summer harvest.
The work requires that a partial road closure will need to be put in place from Church Lane to the end of Station Road with a full closure at the level crossing where the road becomes Wilbraham Road.
Cadent Project Manager, Doug Taylor, 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.
“While we know it’s less than ideal for residents to have a road closure in place, it is necessary for the safety of our team on site. In addition, Network Rail requires a full closure when work takes place near their assets – namely the level crossing on Station Road. As such, in this case there is no alternative but to close this section of the road.
“There will be a clearly signed diversion route in place throughout the works and access for residents and emergency vehicles will be maintained.
“We are very conscious of the disruption roadworks cause and are in regular contact with local authorities 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 along Station Road. If you are a resident of Station Road 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.
ENDS
*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
