A notoriously ‘leaky’ gas pipe in Lowestoft is being replaced by engineers from Cadent – the UK’s largest gas distribution network – with tough new pipes which will last for decades, future proofing the local network.
The work is taking place in Gunton Church Lane, Lowestoft, to replace more than 300 metres of an ageing iron gas pipe which has experienced several leaks in recent years. Rather than carrying out further repair work, engineers are replacing the entire section.
Following consultation with Suffolk County Council, Cadent has agreed to carry out this essential work over a five-week period from Monday 23 March to Friday 24 April.
Due to the location of the gas pipe, Gunton Church Lane has been closed so that engineers can work as safely as possible in the road. Diversion routes are in place, and access remains open to residents.
Amber Greensmith, Head of Customer Experience at Cadent, said: While this section of the Lowestoft network has done a brilliant job over the years, we have been receiving more reports of leaks so the time has come to carry out replacement work to ensure that we can continue to deliver gas to peoples' homes 24/7, 365 days a year.
These upgrades also have big environmental gains, as they reduce methane emissions and enable a move to more renewable gases like biomethane. This is essential for a cleaner future – the UK will need energy to come from a range of sources to meet demand and be sustainable.
I thank everybody for their patience as we take the measures needed to ensure our engineers can carry out these works as safely and as efficiently as possible.
Gas stays ON for the duration of work. The only interruption to supply will be to properties that take a direct feed from the pipes being replaced (in the immediate local area). Supply to these properties will be disconnected for a short while (it will be back on the same day it goes off), as the property gets connected into the new pipe. Advance notice will be given, and more information will be provided to these properties.
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.
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
