National Grid, the UK’s largest utility, is investing £121,500 in improving Towcester’s gas network.
Work will begin on Monday 10 August on a 12-week project to replace and upgrade the old iron gas main along Watling Street (the A5) in Towcester with new plastic pipe, which will last for 80 years if left undisturbed once underground.
Engineers will upgrade 500 metres of main from Richmond Road to Northampton Road along Watling Street, laying a larger pipe than already exists, to cater for the increased demand for gas in the area. As a result, we will not be able to insert the new gas pipe but have to use the traditional method of digging a trench to lay the new pipe.
Temporary traffic lights will be in place 24 hours a day and engineers will be working seven days a week to ensure the project is completed by the end of October. The work will be carried out by Morrisons Utility Services in partnership with National Grid.
John Vogt, project manager, explained: ”National Grid’s priority is to complete the project before this winter, to ensure a reliable gas supply for Towcester is maintained. We will do everything possible to keep disruption to traffic, businesses and residents to an absolute minimum. We have worked with the highways authority and the council to plan the best traffic management and the best time to do this work.”
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