National Grid’s £4.3million essential improvement project enters important phase in Slough

06/08/2009

A major scheme to improve gas supplies in Slough begins a new phase on Monday (August 10).

The work will take place in Stoke Road between the junction of St Paul’s Avenue and Thames Valley University. Engineers will be replacing 400m of existing iron gas mains with new hard wearing plastic pipes.

This work is essential and will ensure the area continues to enjoy a safe, reliable and efficient gas supply in future years. The work forms part of National Grid’s ongoing project to replace 17km of iron gas mains in Slough and Windsor.

In order to carry out the work safely and with a minimum of disruption we will be carrying out the work in sections. Phased lane closures will be implemented on the northbound side of the carriageway of Stoke Road. We will also be suspending some existing traffic lights and using temporary lights. On street parking will also be suspended in areas where work is taking place. Anyone who uses any of the various bus services which travel along Stoke Road is urged to visit www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/southeast/berkshirethames/home/index.php where bus information is updated on a regular basis.

It is anticipated that the work will take up to ten weeks to complete. It is planned to carry out the work in the following phases:

First Phase
Work will take place between the junctions of St Paul’s Avenue and Mill Street.

Second Phase
Work will take place between the junctions of Mill Street and Stoke Gardens.

Third Phase
Work will take place on the footpath between Stoke Gardens and the car park of Thames Valley University.

Fourth Phase
Work will take place at the existing four way traffic lights at the junction of St Paul’s Avenue and Stoke Road.

National Grid Construction Manager Stuart Donaldson said: “This work has been carefully planned in close conjunction with Slough Borough Council to ensure it is carried out as efficiently as possible. We are beginning the work during the school summer holidays when the roads are generally quieter to ensure we minimise disruption for locals and road users. Our engineers will also be working seven days a week to ensure the work is carried out as quickly and safely as possible.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by our essential work. However once replaced the new mains should provide the community with many years of safe, reliable and efficient service.”

This project is part of National Grid’s ongoing mains replacement programme developed in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive. This involves the replacement of all metallic gas mains with new plastic pipes, within 30 metres of buildings.

If you have any queries about the work being carried out please contact our helpline number on 0800 096 5678.

Ends

Further media information from Antony Quarrell, National Grid Communications 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.