Gas Network Improvements In The Pipeline For Loddon

19/09/2007

Gas pipeline company National Grid is advising residents and motorists in Loddon of a temporary road closure in High Bungay Road while work is underway on a £111,000 project to upgrade the Norfolk town’s gas network.

To safeguard both road users and engineers, High Bungay Road will be closed to traffic between the junctions with Gunton Road and Low Bungay Road for five weeks, starting on Monday (24 September).  Access for residents only will be maintained, while a diversion route will be in place for other traffic via High Bungay Road, the A146, and Beccles Road.

National Grid Construction Operations Engineer Julian Yaxley said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused to motorists and residents. This is essential work which will ensure we can continue to deliver a safe and reliable gas supply to local people for many years to come.

“Safety is our top priority and we have worked with the highways authority to put in place traffic management measures that will protect engineers and road-users. However, we will endeavour to minimise any disruption and complete the work as quickly and safely as possible.”

The works are part of a 17-week scheme to renew almost half a kilometre of cast iron gas mains in Stubbs Green Lane and High Bungay Road. The iron mains will be replaced with brand new plastic pipes, which have a lifespan of at least 80 years if left undisturbed in the ground.

The scheme, which is due for completion in December, is being undertaken by Morrison Utility Services on behalf of National Grid.

The scheme forms part of a multi-million package of improvements to the gas network in East Anglia and is a key element in a national mains renewal programme developed by National Grid in conjunction with the Health & Safety Executive.

For any queries about this project please call Morrison Utility Services on 01462 444940.

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For media information only, contact Regional Communications Adviser Sara Wilcox on 01926 655271.

Notes to Editors:


National Grid
National Grid is a leading international energy infrastructure business - the largest utility in the UK.

Through National Grid Gas plc it owns and operates over 6,800 kilometres of high-pressure transmission pipeline across Great Britain, and 132,000 kilometres of lower-pressure distribution gas mains in the North West, the Midlands, East Anglia and North London – more than half of Britain's gas transportation network, delivering gas to around 11 million homes, offices and factories.

Through National Grid Electricity Transmission plc, the company operates the high-voltage electricity transmission network across Great Britain, and owns the network in England and Wales.

National Grid will continue to manage the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.

*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.