Engineers carrying out an essential National Grid gas mains replacement project in King’s Lynn’s Gaywood Clock area have finished the first phase of the works early.
Work to install the first 75 metres of new, long-lasting plastic pipes, from Queen Mary Road to the Wootton Road/Gayton Road intersection, and to reinstate the road surface was finished yesterday – ahead of the expected completion date of 9 August.
Morrison Utility Services staff, who are carrying out the work on behalf of National Grid, are now starting on the second phase of the project. This will involve replacing 50 metres of gas main in Wootton Road, from Gayton Road to River Lane, and installing new service pipes (the pipes that lead from the gas main to individual properties).
National Grid construction engineer Dave Jewson said: “We are always conscious of the potential impact of our works on the local community so I’m very pleased that the first phase of the works has been completed ahead of schedule.
“Fortunately, so far we have encountered few engineering difficulties and thanks to hard work we have made good progress. We will continue to do our utmost to complete this work as quickly and safely as we can.”
The six-week project, which began on 23 July, will see National Grid replace 175 metres of iron gas mains in Lynn Road , Wootton Road and Gayton Road with durable plastic pipes that have a lifespan of 80 years if left undisturbed in the ground. The work will help to ensure safe and reliable gas supplies to local people for decades to come.
Mr Jewson added: “Traffic is flowing smoothly through the junction and Gaywood is very much open for business.
“I’d like to thank the vast majority of motorists who are following the temporary traffic management measures. Their patience is not only safeguarding residents, other road-users and our engineers, but it is ensuring smooth traffic flows through the junction and is helping our efforts to complete this work promptly. For the sake of safety, I would urge all drivers to comply with the traffic restrictions.”
The work is part of a national mains renewal programme developed by National Grid in conjunction with the Health & Safety Executive and industry regulator Ofgem. If members of the public have any enquiries about this project they should call Morrison Utility Services on 01462 444940.
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For further media information contact Sara Wilcox, National Grid Communications, on 01926 655271