Major gas mains upgrade starts

The National Grid is working with Morrison Utility Services and Skanska to renew up to eight kilometres of gas mains in the town.

The 16-week project will see the existing iron gas mains replaced with new, hard wearing plastic pipes, designed to last for at least 80 years.

Project manager Dean Robinson said: “This project will ensure that local people continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies for decades to come.”

“We will make every effort to minimise any inconvenience to residents and businesses and we’ll do our best to keep traffic flowing and maintain access to streets and driveways.”

The project will be in mainly residential areas and will be done in five phases.

The first phase starts in the Hill Crescent area and is expected to take four weeks. This will include work in Eastern Avenue, Turpin Close, Theaker Avenue, Danes Road, Hill Crescent, Somerby Road and White’s Woods Lane.

Engineers will then move on to Thurlby Road, Dorton Avenue, Claythorne Drive, Middlefield Lane, North Parade, Sturgate Walk, Upton Walk, the Walk, South Parade, Priory Close and the Green.

The final phases will take place in White’s Wood Lane, Cherry Tree Road, Woodfield Road, Baines Road, Heapham Crescent, Queensway and John Coupland Hospital.

Traffic management is not expected during the first phase. Temporary traffic lights may be needed in some areas and details will be available closer to the time. Work around schools will be done in school holidays.

To find out how work will affect you call 0800 0965678.