Essential Bedford gas mains upgrade to begin next week

    11 May 2023

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    Simon Hutchinson

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    • Essential work in Midland Road will help keep local residents connected to safe and reliable gas supplies for cooking and heating
    • The upgrade will involve a temporary road closure in the town centre, with diversions put in place

    Work is set to begin on Monday 15 May to replace ageing gas pipes in Midland Road, Bedford, as engineers from Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, take action to secure safe and reliable gas supplies.

    The planned activity, carried out in three stages, will involve the removal of the current metallic gas pipe along Midland Road and replacing them with tough new pipes which will last for decades, futureproofing the Bedford network.

    Following consultation with Bedford Borough Council, Cadent has agreed to begin this essential work, which will require Midland Road to be closed in one direction between Monday 15 May and Friday 1 September, so that the upgrade can be carried out safely in the following stages:

    • Phase One - Midland Road will be closed from the junction of Costin Street to the junction with Battison Street from Monday 15 May until Friday 23 June,
    • Phase Two - Midland Road will be closed from the junction of Battison Street to Prebend Street between Monday 26 June and Friday 21 July
    • Phase Three - work will then take place in Midland Road from the junction of Rutland Road and Grafton Road between Monday 24 July and Friday 1 September.

    Cadent Lead Delivery Engineer, Pete Day, said: “We have a responsibility to make sure every property that uses gas has access to it 24/7, 365 days a year and these essential works will mean that we continue to deliver on that promise.

    “We know it’s far from ideal to have any sort of road closure in place in what is a busy area, but we have worked hard with Bedford Borough Council to create a plan that keeps traffic flowing and maintains access for local businesses and residents.

    “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we complete this important work.”

    Cadent teams have liaised with local stakeholders and councillors, with information sent to properties within the work area. Gas supply stays ON throughout.

    ENDS

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