Engineers racing to replace gas mains in Dunstable’s West Street have clocked up an early success, completing the essential works more than a week ahead of schedule.
West Street, which has been restricted to westbound traffic only, was reopened to two-way traffic yesterday evening (Tuesday 11 September) after gas pipeline company National Grid and contractors Morrison Utility Services finished upgrading 250 metres of pipes between High Street North and Princes Street.
The work was completed ahead of the target date of 20 September and brings the length of new gas pipes laid in the town so far this year to more than 1.5kms.
National Grid Construction Engineer Dilbir Chana said: “We were aware of the busy nature of West Street so we always aimed to finish the works as soon as we could. I am delighted the project has been completed ahead of schedule.
“We apologise for any inconvenience these works have caused and would like to thank motorists, residents and local businesses for bearing with us. These essential works will enable local people to continue to enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come.”
Engineers are now embarking on the next phase of the project - replacing 425 metres of mains along the south side of High Street North, from the junction with West Street to Regent Street. To safeguard workers and motorists, some traffic management measures may be necessary and will be planned in conjunction with Bedfordshire Highways Authority and the Police.
The works are part of a £500,000 National Grid scheme to help secure Dunstable’s gas network until the end of the century. Under the year-long project more than 2.5kms of cast iron mains in the High Street North area are being replaced with durable new plastic pipes which have a lifespan of 80 years if left undisturbed in the ground. Since March, engineers have laid 1,585 metres of new pipe.
The works in Dunstable form an important element in a 30-year national mains replacement programme developed by National Grid in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive.
If anyone has any questions about this project, they should call Morrison Utility Services on 01462 444948.
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For more media information only, please contact Sara Wilcox, National Grid Communications, on 01926 655271 or 07768 433211.