Gas pipes, which were originally installed during post-WWI recovery, are being replaced in Walton-on-the-Naze by engineers from Cadent – the UKs largest gas distribution network.
The project in Kirby Road, will see 800 metres of gas main pipelines – which were installed in the 1920s – being replaced with tough new pipes which will last for decades, future-proofing the local network.
Work started on Monday 23 February and will also affect neighbouring roads including Gouldings Avenue, Grove Avenue and Butchers Lane.
Following consultation with Essex County Council, Cadent has agreed to carry out these essential works over a 16-week period from Monday 23 February until and Friday 12 June.
Due to the location of the gas main and to ensure the safety of engineers, the work taking place will be carried out using a mixture of road closures, multi-way traffic lights and singular lane access. When there is a road closure, a diversion route will be clearly signposted.
A dedicated website has been created for the project which can be found at cadentgas.com/major-projects/kirby-road-walton-on-the-naze.
Amber Greensmith, Head of Customer Experience at Cadent, said: “The metallic pipes that are in place in this section of the network, have been very well used for over 100 years. It’s now time for them to be replaced so that we can continue to deliver gas to peoples’ homes 24/7, 365 days a year.
“In this part of Walton-on-the-Naze, more than 85 per cent of homes have gas central heating. Upgrading these pipelines will ensure we can continue to distribute gas safely to them, for many decades to come.
“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 have worked with the local highways team, as well as local authorities, to try our best to ensure that we minimise disruption whilst we carry out these essential works.
“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 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.
