WORKS to upgrade 70-year-old as pipes on junction 16 of the M40 at Hockley Heath are under way.
Over the next seven weeks Cadent will be replace 900 metres of gas mains, originally laid in the 1950s, which is nearing the end of its working life.
Rather than carrying out ongoing repairs, engineers will replace the entire section with modern, durable plastic pipe designed to last for decades and future‑proof the local gas network.
The replacement work will be delivered in two phases.
Phase one started on Monday (April 20) and will last for around seven weeks, with phase two following immediately afterwards for a further seven weeks.
Each phase will see around 450 metres of ageing six-inch gas main replaced with new polyethylene pipe, helping to reduce the risk of gas leaks and improve the efficiency and resilience of the network.
Following consultation with the local highway authority, the works will be carried out under two‑way traffic lights to allow engineers to work as safely as possible while maintaining access for road users.
Traffic management will be removed as soon as it is safe to do so.
Craig Chittem, operations manager at Cadent, said: “This section of the gas network has served local customers well for more than 70 years, but it has reached the end of its operational life. By upgrading these pipes now, we’re helping to keep gas flowing safely and reliably to homes and businesses, both now and well into the future.
“We know projects like this can cause some disruption, and we’d like to thank everyone for their patience while our engineers carry out this essential work as safely and efficiently as possible.”
Gas will remain on throughout most of the project.
Anyone who smells gas, should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999, day or night.
Do not assume it is related to these works — all reports must be checked.
