National Grid has now reconnected gas supplies to the majority of properties in Northwood who lost their supply after water entered the gas mains network.  The water came from a burst water main which in turn, damaged a nearby gas pipe.

National Grid was alerted to the incident early on Wednesday morning (17th March) and drafted engineers into the area from across the business who worked around the clock to restore supplies.

The water main and the gas main were repaired by Veolia Water and National Grid respectively. National Grid then pumped water out of the local gas network.

National Grid Incident Controller Tony Day said: “I am pleased to say that we have now restored supplies to the majority of properties who lost their gas supply.  I would like to thank the local community for their continued cooperation and patience during this difficult time.”

Important – People should not attempt to reconnect their own gas supply or relight appliances. They must wait until an engineer calls to carry out this operation to ensure their gas system is working safely.

People still waiting for your gas supply to be reconnected should call 0845 605 6677 to arrange access to your property. An engineer needs access to check that your gas appliances are working correctly before restoring your supply.

Please confirm the identity of engineers before allowing them into your property. All National Grid personnel carry official identity cards containing a photograph. For further verification of National Grid engineers you can call 0845 605 6677.

National Grid has set up a mobile command unit in Copse Wood Way which will remain open until 4pm on Sunday March 21 2010.

If people require further assistance, support or advice, they should call 0845 605 6677. For updates they can also visit www.nationalgrid.com/incidents

If you smell gas or have lost your gas supply please ring the National Gas Emergency service on 0800 111 999. (calls will be recorded and may be monitored).
 

Ends

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

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.