Eccles: essential work to repair a gas pipeline deep underground

Nov 17 2023 in your area

Engineers working to locate the source of a gas leak close to Eccles bus station are preparing to go deep underground to repair a pipeline.

Cadent, which manages the local gas network, took urgent action with its teams digging ventilation holes to move gas away from nearby buildings and keep everyone safe.

Everything is under control, but major engineering work now needs to happen to keep it that way.

Cadent has used camera equipment and other techniques to pinpoint the source of the gas leak. It has now found the most likely source, which is deep under Church Street.

Its teams have started to create the space needed to work on the underground gas pipeline.

As a result, Church Street is closed on one side of the bus station. Taxis and buses are still operating from the bus station, with some changes to access and exit.

Stuart Millett, Customer Operations Area Manager at Cadent, said: “We’ve been able to get everything under control, but the repair is essential to keep it that way.

“We will be working on this ‘live’ – which means gas stays on, which is important because this pipeline helps carry gas that keeps thousands of local homes warm.

“While safety has to be our priority, we know it’s leading to some localised disruption. We appreciate everyone’s patience while we get on with this repair.”

Contacting Cadent about this work

Ring 0800 389 8000 or fill in this online form.

However, if you smell gas, here or anywhere, act immediately and call the national gas emergency service on 0800 111 999, day or night. Please don’t assume it is related to this – it may not be and needs to be checked. All calls are recorded and may be monitored.

Cadent

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.

Future of Gas: 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.