MOTORISTS are being warned to expect delays with essential work to replace underground, ageing metal gas mains in Glazebury, Warrington, over the next six months.
The latest phase of a 30-year, country-wide project to replace metal pipes with durable plastic ones is now under way in Warrington Road and will ensure safe and reliable gas supplies until the end of the century.
Following careful planning and communications with Warrington Borough Council, local businesses and residents, National Grid Gas Distribution’s teams arrived on site this week to start the 2.4km-long pipe replacement.
Working seven days a week, the teams will start from the junction with Hey Shoot Lane and, over the five to six-month duration of the project, will gradually move along the road to the junction of Lowfield Gardens.
Traffic management systems will be in place from next Monday (10 April). Access will be available at all times, but drivers should expect delays. In order to optimise flow of traffic in each direction, traffic lights will be operated manually at peak commute times.
Gas supplies in the area should not be affected.
Stephen Murray, head of contract for National Grid Gas Distribution, said: “This is essential work to ensure people can continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies, to heat their properties and cook their meals, for at least another 80 years. We have worked very hard to minimise disruption, by working closely with the council, as well as informing and consulting businesses in the area. It is inevitable and unavoidable that there will be some inconvenience while we carry out this work, for which I can only apologise.”
Homes and businesses along Warrington Road, which include Bents Garden and Home centre, have been informed by letter and, in many cases, face-to-face meetings. When the work reaches the garden centre end of Warrington Road – expected to be around September – the gas company will have a team based at the centre to explain the works. The centre, and all businesses along the route, will be open throughout.
Further information is available from the customer team on 0161 703 1000 / 1010. General information on the gas mains replacement programme is at www.bettergaspipes.co.uk
