National Grid’s £4m programme of essential gas mains replacement work on the A127 near Basildon will enter a new phase later this month.
Work began earlier this year to replace the iron gas mains along the A127 between Childerditch Lane and the A130 with a single larger diameter plastic pipe.
The majority of work is on the eastbound verge of the A127. However, some essential work needs to be carried out in the central reservation for two to three weeks beginning at the end of this month.
To ensure the work can be carried out safely, the A127 lanes will be narrowed to 6’6” and a 40mph speed limit will be in force between the A132 (Nevendon) and A1245 (Fairglen) junctions. Wide loads will need to straddle both lanes.
To allow engineers to put the narrow lanes in place, the A127 will be closed overnight from 9pm on Monday 30 November to 6am on Tuesday 01 December between the A132 (Nevendon) and A1245 (Fairglen) junctions. A further night-time closure will be required at the end of this phase of work to remove the narrow lanes. There will be a fully signed diversion route via Basildon in place during these full closures.
National Grid project engineer Andrew Farnfield said: “This is an essential investment in the gas network that will deliver long-term benefits to the community. We have worked closely with the local authority and other agencies to ensure the work is delivered with a minimum of disruption.
“We apologise for any inconvenience our work may cause. We ask residents and motorists to be patient with us as disruption and some delays are expected at peak times.”
If you have further questions about this project please call our helpline on 0800 096 5678.
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For further media information contact Antony Quarrell, National Grid Media Relations 07810 853075