Engineers from Cadent – the UK’s largest gas distribution network – are getting to work in Wymondham to replace gas pipes that have been underground since the days when the Beatles were just starting out.
Cadent is replacing 2,245 metres of ageing metal mains in Tuttles Lane West, Barnham Broom Road, Applegarth, Gaynor Close, and Chapel Lane with modern plastic pipes which will future-proof the local network for decades to come.
The original pipes were laid in 1960, meaning they have been quietly doing their job beneath the street for over 65 years. While they have served the community well, the time has come to swap them out for newer plastic alternatives, which are more durable, safer and better suited to the demands of a modern gas network.
The project is part of a £123million investment this year, which will see more than 395km of pipes upgraded across the East of England.
Work is already well underway in Tuttles Lane West, Barnham Broom Road, and Gaynor Close, with work in Applegarth due to start on Monday 20 April.
While most of this work is being carried out with minor traffic management, the phase of work involving Chapel Lane will require a road closure so that engineers can work safely. Diversion routes will be put in place, and access will remain for residents throughout.
Following consultation with Norfolk County Council, Cadent has agreed to carry out this essential work over a ten-week period, with completion expected by Saturday 30 May.
Eleanor Buxton, Head of Work Management at Cadent, said: “The metallic pipes that are in place in this section of the network have been very well used over the past 65 years and it’s time for them to be replaced so 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.
We are very conscious of the disruption works like this cause and hope people understand this project is essential to maintain a long-term safe gas supply.
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 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
