National Grid is replacing 1,070 metres of gas mains in Windermere 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.
Work will be in two phases. Phase one affecting Lake Road and Queens Drive will begin on the 22nd January with phase two affecting New Road and Ellerthwaite Square commencing on the 19th February. Both projects are anticipated to be completed during the first week of April.
The mains renewal work 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 local residents, hotels/guest houses and road users, but the safety and security of the gas supply system has to remain our top priority.
As Windermere is heavily involved with the tourist trade we have chosen this time of year to carry out the works in order to avoid the main tourist season and minimise the effect our works will have on the area.”
The work involves replacing 600 metres of low pressure cast iron main with plastic pipe in Lake Road/Queens Drive and 500 metres in New Road/Ellerthwaite Square.
Temporary traffic lights will be in operation while engineers are working in New Road and Lake Road with no road closures anticipated.
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.