A major scheme to protect gas supply to 30,000 properties in Urmston, Manchester - described as 'one of the largest and most challenging' undertaken in recent years by gas network Cadent - is nearing completion.
The engineering works associated with the project to install a mile of new large-diameter gas main are now finished, signalling the start of the last phase - to reinstate excavations as big as swimming pools.
Cadent said it plans to have the road fully reopen to traffic within three weeks, and thanked the local community for their patience and understanding while the project progressed through much of 2025 and into 2026.
We are pleased to be nearing the end of our Flixton Road mains replacement scheme as we recently completed the engineering work and move towards reinstatement.
To complete this final stage safely, and to ensure the work is durable for the long term, we must fill the excavations in layers. This starts with concrete to stabilise the larger excavation walls, before moving on to infilling and resurfacing the surface with tarmac.
We are aware this project has caused disruption for residents and we would like to thank them for their patience and understanding as we move closer to completing these essential pipeline upgrades, which will ensure a safe and secure gas connection.
Over recent months, Cadent’s engineers have been replacing several ageing sections of gas main in Urmston, on and around Flixton Road. Some of these pipes are more than a century old and have experienced leaks in recent years.
The £3 million upgrade replaces old metal mains with new, long‑lasting plastic pipes. These modern pipes reduce the risk of gas leaks and support the future transportation of low‑carbon gases such as biomethane, helping prepare the network for a cleaner energy future.
Cadent has invested £75 million this year (between April 2025 and March 2026) to upgrade 385km of its oldest pipework across the North West, ensuring the network remains safe, reliable and ready to meet customer demand for decades to come.
This scheme is one of the largest and most challenging in the region, involving deep excavations, work close to listed buildings and coordination with other utilities carrying out emergency repairs.
Customers with questions about this work can contact the team by:
Phone: 0800 090 3071
Email: [email protected]
Online: https://cadentgas.com/contactus/contact-form-nw
If you smell gas during this work, nearby or anywhere, always ring the national gas emergency service immediately, day or night, on 0800 111 999*. Do not delay, or assume it is related to this work. It may not be and must be checked.
More information on Cadent’s North West pipeline upgrades – www.cadentgas.com/nw5
Cadent employs around 1,200 people in the North West. It is responsible for maintaining and upgrading more than 21,000 miles of (mostly) underground gas distribution pipes and providing a 24/7, 365-days-a-year gas emergency service.
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.
