National Grid invests over £360,000 in Barnet gas network

19/05/2009

National Grid is carrying out a 21st century makeover on gas mains in Barnet to help ensure the area enjoys safe and reliable gas supplies in the future.

Almost 2km of old iron gas mains are to be replaced with new hard-wearing plastic pipes on the A41 Watford Way between Hartley Avenue and Page Street. Work on the project starts at the beginning of June and is being carried out by the North London Gas Alliance, a partnership between National Grid and Skanska.

This scheme represents an investment of over £360.000 in Barnet by National Grid.

To carry out this work safely we have agreed with the local council to implement lane closures from opposite Hartley Avenue to the Page Street junction. There will also be a need for some footpath closures. Diversions will be in place and advanced warning and information signs will be installed at all major approaches to the works.

Wherever possible the new pipes will be inserted into the old mains to reduce the need for excavations and to minimise traffic disruption. The project should be complete by October.

This essential work will improve local gas supplies and forms part of National Grid’s mains replacement programme, agreed with the Health and Safety Executive, to replace all metallic mains within 30 metres of buildings.

Constructions Operations Engineer Michael Morris said: “This major project will ensure that people in the area continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies in future years. We apologise for any inconvenience this vital work may cause and we will do our utmost to keep disruption to a minimum.”

If you require further information or advice, either prior to, or during the works, please call our helpline number on 0800 096 5678.

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Further media information from Antony Quarrell, National Grid Media Relations on 07810 853075

Notes to Editors:

National Grid
National Grid is an international electricity and gas company and one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. We play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to millions of people across Great Britain and northeastern US in an efficient, reliable and safe manner. We believe the power of action can play a major role in safeguarding our global environment for future generations and tackling the effects of climate change, providing all our customers with the highest standards of service through network investment and through our talented, diverse workforce.

National Grid owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain. It also owns and operates the high pressure gas transmission system in Britain and its distribution business delivers gas to 11 million homes and businesses.

National Grid manages the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.  

*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.