National Grid : Update on Bilston gas mains replacement

22 Dec 2016

• Older metal gas mains are being replaced with tough modern plastic pipe
• The work will ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for the future

Because of unexpected engineering difficulties, National Grid will take longer than originally planned to complete gas mains replacement work on Bradley Lane in Bilston, West Midlands. Work will continue over the Christmas period, with the exception of 25 and 26 December and 1 January, and National Grid now expects it to be finished by 24 January 2017.

This essential work is being carried out because the older metal gas mains have reached the end of their working lives and need to be renewed. They will be replaced with new hard-wearing plastic pipe which, once in the ground, should last for many year and will need little or no maintenance. This means that future disruption from roadworks will be greatly reduced.

'We're sorry that the work is taking longer than we expected, and we apologise for any inconvenience this will cause,' said Steve Murray, National Grid's Head of Contract West. 'Unfortunately, because the old mains were installed many years ago, it sometimes happens that the information we have about them is incomplete, and this can mean that the replacement work takes longer than expected.'

'That's what happened in this case, but we're doing everything we can to keep the extra period of disruption to a minimum. The end result will be worthwhile because the work we're doing now will ensure that residents and traders in the area will continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply for cooking and heating for many years to come.'

During the work, further information can be found by calling the National Grid Customer Enquiry Team on 0161 703 1000/1010. To find out more about how National Grid replaces gas mains and how this affects residents and businesses go to www.bettergaspipes.co.uk.