National Grid is inviting residents to an open event to discuss a vital major upgrade scheme which will give local gas mains a 21st century re-fit.
National Grid will soon begin replacing approximately 5km of iron gas mains in the Ilford area. The mains will be replaced with new hard wearing plastic mains which should last for a minimum of 80 years if left undisturbed.
The work will be carried out by the North London Gas Alliance, a partnership between National Grid and Skanska. Work is due to start on 18 May 2009 in Mill Road and Coventry Road. As the scheme progresses work will also be taking place in York Road, Belgrave Road, Beal Road, Cranbrook Road, Brisbane Road, Quebec Road and Perth Road.
We have carefully planned this project with the local authority and other agencies to ensure it is carried out with a minimum of disruption. The new pipes will be inserted into the old mains wherever possible, reducing the need to dig holes in the roads.
Local people can find out more about the scheme by visiting the National Grid information bus, which will be outside Harrison and Gibson in High Street, Ilford, between 10am and 4pm on Wednesday 06 May and Saturday 09 May.
The project will take approximately six months to complete.
National Grid Construction Operations Manager Steve Blackburn said: “This scheme will ensure residents and businesses enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies in future years. Of course any major scheme will generate questions from the local community. This is why we’ve organised these open days. Please do come along and meet us and we’ll be happy to answer any queries you may have.”
This work forms part of National Grid’s nationwide mains replacement programme as agreed with the Health and Safety Executive. This involves replacing all metallic mains within 30 metres of buildings.
For more information on the scheme people can also call our helpline number on 0800 096 5678.
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Further media information from Antony Quarrell, National Grid Communications on 07810 853075