Gas pipes buried deep under roads in Oaklands, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, are due to be replaced by engineers from Cadent – the UK’s largest gas distribution network.
The project will see 2,431 metres of old gas main replaced with tough new pipes which will last for decades, helping to future-proof the local network and keep gas flowing safely and reliably to homes and businesses.
Before work begins, Cadent is inviting people to a public event on Wednesday 26 August, between 12 noon and 2pm, on the grass verge of Lower Mardley Hill, opposite the North Star public house. The What3Words location is ///bright.bliss.offer.
No appointment is necessary, and people can call in at any point during the event to learn more about the scheme and ask questions.
Following consultation with Hertfordshire County Council, the work is due to start on Tuesday 31 August and is expected to take 24 weeks to complete, with a permit in place until Friday 26 February 2027.
Work will take place in Woodacre Drive, Tanglewood, Turpins Chase, Woodland Way, Peace Grove, Firway, Firway Close, Link Road, Spindle Berry Close and Lower Mardley Hill.
There is no planned traffic management at this stage, although this may change as the scheme progresses. Cadent will provide updates if traffic arrangements are needed. Access will remain for residents and businesses wherever it is safe and practical to do so.
Eleanor Buxton, Head of Work Management at Cadent, said: The pipes that are in place in this section of the network have been very well used over the years. It’s now time for them to be replaced so that we can continue to deliver gas safely to homes and businesses 24/7, 365 days a year.
We know these residential roads are important for people living, working, and travelling in Oaklands, which is why we have planned the work carefully and arranged a public event before we start.
I would encourage anyone who wants to find out more to come and speak to us on Wednesday 26 August so we can allay any fears that people may have. No appointment is needed, and our team will be there between 12 noon and 2pm to explain what is happening and answer questions.
I thank everybody for their patience and understanding while we carry out this essential work.
Gas stays ON for the duration of the works. 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 these works; 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
