Today (Monday 9 January) marks the start of a major gas mains revamp in Congleton that will keep gas supplies flowing to homes and businesses until the end of the century.
National Grid will be installing brand new gas pipes in Bridge Street, Duke Street, Victoria Street and Swan Bank. The work is expected to be completed in April. The existing iron mains will be replaced with tough, hardwearing new plastic pipes that will last for at least 80 years and will need little maintenance.
Stephen Murray, Head of Contract, for National Grid said: “National Grid plays a vital role in keeping people warm. This essential work will mean that local residents and businesses can continue to enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come.
“We appreciate that some of this work may be disruptive. We would urge drivers and the local community to bear with us. We’ll do all we can to complete this work as soon as possible. We really appreciate people’s patience and co-operation.”
Work will start in Bridge Street on 9 January and is expected to be completed by the end of February. During this period work will also be carried out in Victoria Street and Duke Street. Delivery vehicles will continue to be able to access Bridge Street as usual.
To carry out the work safely it will be necessary to temporarily suspend the pelican crossing at the junction of Bridge Street and Market Street. Temporary traffic lights will be installed for a short period while the final stage of the Bridge Street work is completed.
Work is due to get underway in Swan Bank on 27 February. From 27 February until 12 March, Swan Bank will be closed at the junction of Bridge Street and Mill Street, outside the Bulls Head Hotel, and there will be a lane closure in Antrobus Lane. From 13 March until 10 April West Street will be closed to through traffic.
If anyone has any queries they can contact National Grid customer services on 0161 703 1000. To find out more about how National Grid replaces gas mains and how that affects residents and businesses go to www.bettergaspipes.co.uk