Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, will be starting essential works on Monday 9 November to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Berwick.
The project, which has been planned in close collaboration with Northumberland County Council, involves the replacement of the ageing metal pipework with new, more durable plastic pipes.
The ageing gas main has undergone several emergency repairs in recent years, so has now been prioritised for urgent replacement.
To protect engineering teams and members of the public, all work will be carried out in the street, with extra measures in place for safe distance working.
Works will begin at Love Lane, near Bank Hill, on Monday 9 November for one week.
Following this, works will begin on Monday 16 November at Ravensdowne to replace the existing metal gas mains under the road.
To allow the project to be completed as quickly and as safely as possible, and to ensure the safety of engineers and members of the public, it will be necessary to introduce some temporary traffic management.
From Monday 16 November and lasting up to three weeks, the junction to Ravensdowne from Parade will be closed. Signs will be displayed for motorists and a full signed diversion put in place.
As the works progress works down Ravensdowne, the junction will be reopened, but will then require a temporary closure at the junction of Woolmarket and Ravensdowne.
On-street parking bays will be suspended temporarily during the project. Alternative parking has been made available for residents with a parking permit at The Parade Car Park and parking time restrictions will not apply providing a residents’ parking pass is clearly displayed.
Once works are finished at Ravensdowne, works will then progress over to Tweed Street and Railway Street. Further details on this phase of the scheme will be shared closer to the start date.
Richie Manuel, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these essential works. However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to Berwick.
“NGN is continuing to carry out essential services while following strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and observing health and safety guidance during the current lockdown in England.
“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”
Catherine Seymour, Councillor for Berwick North on Northumberland County Council, said: “These necessary gas main replacement works are to be done by stages in a number of places throughout the town for a number of months. I have been assured that these works and the disruptions to our roads will be done safely, swiftly and efficiently.
“All residents and stakeholders to be affected are being notified. Although, along with these essential works the old bridge heritage restoration is to take place during this time and our patience for some delays due to traffic management is being called upon. If residents have any questions or concerns, please contact us.”
In line with UK Government guidance, NGN is continuing to carry out essential services including responding to gas emergencies, carrying out emergency repairs and undertaking critical maintenance activities, to ensure communities continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.
For further information about the work please contact Community Care Officer, Alexandra Brightman, on 07811 970 544 or by email at abrightman@northerngas.co.uk . Alternatively you can contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email customercare@northerngas.co.uk.
Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.