Gas pipe replacement – Barnsley Road, Wombwell

14/08/2009

National Grid, the UK’s largest utility, is investing £125,000 in improving Wombwell’s gas network. 

Work will begin on Monday 07 September on a six-week project to replace 700 metres of the old iron gas main along Barnsley Road with new plastic pipe, which will last for 80 years if left undisturbed once underground.

The work will be carried out by the M1 Corridor Gas Alliance, a partnership between National Grid and AMEC.   Engineers will be inserting the new gas pipe into the existing gas main, reducing the need for large excavations and ensuring disruption is kept to a minimum.

Temporary traffic lights will only be in place for the last section between Myrtle Road and York Street where the road reduces in width.

Chris Wade, project manager explained: ”We appreciate that our works may cause some disruption but every effort is being made to reduce the effects.  We have worked closely with the Highways Authority to plan the best traffic management scheme and we will be using the latest technology to insert the new gas pipe into the old one instead of digging a trench.”

Engineers will need access to a number of properties during the work to ensure safe connection of gas service pipes to the new main. Residents and businesses will be notified in advance if they are affected, and people should always ask to see identification before allowing anyone in to their property. Access to properties will be maintained throughout.

National Grid apologies for any inconvenience the project may cause and asks that road users are patient and work with us, so that we can ensure the gas pipe is laid as quickly and safely as possible.

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For further media information only please contact Stephanie van Rosse, National Grid Media Relations on 01455 23113.

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.