National Grid is replacing 800 metres of gas mains in Preston as part of a multi-million pound package of improvements to the gas supply system in the North West.
The company, the UK’s biggest utility, will be replacing metallic mains with modern plastic ones which have a lifespan of at least 80 years, if left undisturbed once they are in the ground.
The mains renewal work in Fishergate and Church Street is part of a national programme of work developed in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). In all, 15,000km of mains will be replaced across Britain over the next eight years at a cost of around £1.6bn.
Craig Horrocks, Term Contract Manager said: “In the North West, National Grid owns and operates 36,000km of gas mains which deliver gas to 2.7m homes and businesses. These mains tend to be concentrated in the areas of greatest population because this is where there is the greatest demand for gas.
“Work by our engineers will cause some disruption to residents and road users but the safety and security of the gas supply system has to remain our top priority.”
Work in Preston gets underway on 15th January 2007 and will take 27 weeks to complete.
In all, 800 metres of low pressure cast iron main will be replaced with plastic pipe in Church Street and Fishergate area. While engineers work in Church Street, one lane will be closed between the hours of 9am and 3.30pm and road closures will be implemented at the junction of Derby Street and Pole Street.
Craig added: “We understand that people get frustrated by work carried out by utility companies but the gas, water and electricity supplies we rely on arrive at our homes through a complicated network of pipes and cables which have to be maintained.
“We would urge people to have patience with us whilst we carry out these essential works – there will be short term disruption, but it will produce a long term safe and reliable gas supply.”
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For more media information only, please contact Jeanette Jackson, National Grid Communications on 07785 290230.