Work is set to begin on Monday 28 October to replace 1300m of ageing gas pipes in Stowmarket, 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 were originally installed in the 1930s – in Tavern Street, Finborough Road, and Recreation Road, and installing tough new pipes which will last for decades, future proofing the Stowmarket network.
Following consultation with Suffolk County Council, Cadent has agreed to carry out this essential work between Monday 28 October and February 2025. The works will require phased road closures in Tavern Street, Finborough Road, and Recreation Road, as well as road traffic management being put in place at:
There will also be a reversal of the one-way system in Bury Street to ensure that traffic can continue to flow smoothly.
Cadent Site Manager, Brian Nightingale, 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.
“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.
“We are very 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 in Tavern Street, Finborough Road, and Recreation Road. If you are a resident of these streets and your gas supply will be affected as part of the 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
