Improvements in the pipeline for Sedgley

16/07/2009

A major scheme to improve the gas network in Sedgley is due to start on Monday 20 July.  The project, which is expected to take seven weeks and should be completed before the start of the new school year, is necessary to ensure the town continues to receive a safe and reliable gas supply. 

Work will start at the junction of School Street and Bilston Street.  From there it will move to the following locations:

  • High Street from Bilston Street to Dudley Street
  • Dudley Street from Bull Ring to Catholic Lane
  • Townsend Avenue
  • Ettymore Road
  • Hall Street
  • Gospel End Street

During the work it will be necessary to use extensive traffic management including temporary traffic lights and diversions.  Access to businesses and the town’s car parks will be available at all times.

The project has been planned with Dudley Council and will take place during the school summer holiday when traffic is lighter.  Where possible the new pipe will be inserted through the old one, reducing considerably the amount of digging required and minimising inconvenience to motorists and residents.

National Grid project manager Dave Garbett said:  ‘I appreciate that work of this kind can cause disruption to residents and motorists, but it’s a short term inconvenience for a long term benefit.  The new plastic pipe we are laying is very hard wearing and, if undisturbed, will last for up to 80 years with little or no maintenance.’

The work is being carried out by the West Midlands Gas Alliance, a partnership between National Grid and leading utilities company Morgan Est.  The project is part of National Grid’s 30-year programme to improve the safety and reliability of the gas supply network by replacing all metal gas pipes that lie within 30 metres of property.

Ends

For further media information contact Jane Taylor, National Grid Media Relations on 0121 333 2640

 

Notes to Editors:

National Grid
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