National Grid invests almost £4million in essential 21st century gas main revamp in High Wycombe

04/02/2010

National Grid is investing almost £4million in a gas mains upgrade which will help ensure the people of High Wycombe continue to enjoy safe, secure and reliable gas supplies in future years.

A total of 33km of iron gas mains will be replaced with new hard wearing plastic pipes which should last for many years if they are left undisturbed.

Gas mains will be replaced in the Holmer Green, Hazlemere, Great Kingshill and Widmer End areas between February 2010 and April 2012.

National Grid will minimise disruption by inserting the new mains into the old mains wherever possible, which will reduce the need for trenches.

National Grid Construction Manager, Stuart Donaldson said: “These essential schemes will help ensure residents and businesses in High Wycombe continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies in future years.

“We apologise for any inconvenience to local residents and road users while this vital work is carried out. The projects have been carefully planned in consultation with the local authority and other agencies to ensure they are carried out with a minimum of disruption.”

Anyone with queries about the project can call our helpline number on 0800 096 5678.

Work will be carried out by the North London Gas Alliance, a partnership between National Grid and Skanska.

The projects form part of National Grid’s ongoing mains replacement programme as agreed with the Health and Safety Executive, which involves replacing all metallic mains within 30 metres of buildings.

Ends

For further media information contact Antony Quarrell, National Grid Media Relations, on 07810 853075

Notes to Editors:

National Grid
National Grid is an international electricity and gas company and one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. We play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to millions of people across Great Britain and northeastern US in an efficient, reliable and safe manner. We believe the power of action can play a major role in safeguarding our global environment for future generations and tackling the effects of climate change, providing all our customers with the highest standards of service through network investment and through our talented, diverse workforce.

National Grid owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain. It also owns and operates the high pressure gas transmission system in Britain and its distribution business delivers gas to 11 million homes and businesses.

National Grid manages the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.  

*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.