Residents and business owners in Earls Colne, Essex, and the surrounding areas are invited to attend a public event organised by Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, to learn more about essential gas works taking place in the area.
The event will give everyone the opportunity to learn more about the necessity for the project and how the work will affect everyone on a day-to-day basis.
Between 10am and 1pm on Friday 30 January customer teams from Cadent will have a gazebo set up on the grass verge of the A1124 Colneford Hill, opposite Bridge House, for people to call at.
There is no need to book an appointment, just turn up and speak to the team.
The gas works taking place in Earls Colne and White Colne, involve the decommissioning of the current metallic gas pipes – which measure 1000 metres - and installing tough new plastic pipes which will last for decades, future proofing the local network.
As well as ensuring a reliable and safe supply of gas now, it will also help get the local gas network ready for more cleaner gases, like biomethane.
The work is part of a £90m investment in the financial year up to 31 March 2026, which will see more than 300km of gas pipes upgraded across the East of England.
Following consultation with Essex Highways, Cadent has agreed to carry out this essential work between Monday 26 January and Monday 27 April 2026.
Gas mains replacement work will be taking place in Church Hill, Park Lane, Upper Holt Street, Colneford Hill, and Colne Park Road, during this period, but due to the complex nature of the work – which will be carried out in phases – there is a requirement for road closures and other traffic management measures throughout the three-month scheme.
Where diversions are required, these will be clearly signposted.
Speaking about the work, Project Manager Gary Tidman said: We have a responsibility to make sure every property that uses gas has access to it 24/7, 365 days a year and these essential works will ensure we keep that promise here in the East of England.
We work closely with the council and local Highways Authority to find the best possible diversion, but we must ensure that any route is suitable for all traffic. Sometimes this means that the diversion can appear longer, but that is to ensure traffic continues to flow without causing any further disruption.
Naturally, we recognise that this will cause frustration to residents and road users, so we would urge everybody to allow a little more time for their journeys.
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 swiftly, 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.
The event also acts as a timely reminder that 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 planned 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
