Streetworks Pipeline Replacement

National Grid is embarking on a programme to replace 91,000km of iron gas mains around the country.

The programme targets iron mains within 30 metres of property, and will see the iron pipes replaced with yellow polyethylene pipes. Polyethylene is a plastic material; it is flexible and highly resistant to corrosion.

Points to note:
- The gas pipeline network is as safe as it has ever been and our mains replacement programme builds on this.
- The replacement programme has been developed after lengthy and comprehensive discussions between National Grid, the Health & Safety Executive (responsible for industry safety) and Ofgem, the energy industry regulator.
- A programme to replace more than 90,000km of gas pipe is inevitably going to lead to more Streetworks but we will try at all times to keep any disruption or inconvenience to a minimum. Where possible, we use technology such as ‘no dig’ techniques, trenchless working and directional drilling.
- We work closely with Local Authorities to plan and implement Streetworks and follow the rules set out in the New Roads and Streetworks Act. These include giving advance notice of any planned works.
- We take safety extremely seriously. Last year, we spent £249m on replacement alone – that’s nearly £5m every week of the year.
- The iron mains are being replaced with polyethylene pipes. Polyethylene is a plastic material, is flexible and is highly resistant to corrosion. The life of a PE main is currently expected to be at least 80 years

Please see our frequently asked questions below for more information.

• Why does National Grid have to dig up the roads - isn't there a better alternative?
• Why can't National Grid share its trenches with other utilities or at least carry out work at the same time?
• Why does it often appear to passers-by that your workmen are standing around drinking tea, or that the work area appears to be deserted?
• Does National Grid co-ordinate its works in an effective manner?
• What kind of measures do you take to minimise disruption?
• Wouldn't you complete the work more quickly if you worked around the clock?
• Why do you take so much room up when carrying out roadworks - for example, taking up two lanes when surely one would do?
• Why do you sometimes come back and dig again in the same place?
• You've been doing work at a site near me for weeks but you appear to have abandoned it and just left the hole open. What's going on?
• Why don't you take down your traffic lights and hoardings as soon as you've finished a job?
• If my business suffers how do I qualify for compensation?