Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out critical infrastructure work in the parish of Cummersdale, Cumbria.
Northern Gas Networks, (NGN) the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out two critical gas network projects in the Carlisle and Cummersdale area.
The first involves diverting a 600m section of high pressure gas main that intersects the River Caldew.
The river has gradually scoured away the riverbed sitting over the main, meaning the pipe is now exposed and potentially vulnerable to damage.
In recent years, NGN have carried out several remedial solutions to tackle the issue, which haven’t provided long-term adequate protection for the main.
By diverting the main from its current position, the work will ensure future gas supplies to this part of Cumbria remains safe and reliable.
At the same time, NGN are also diverting another section of high pressure gas main that runs from Catton to Cummersdale, at the request of Cumbria County Council.
This is to accommodate the construction of the new Carlisle Southern Link Road bypass.
Both projects have been planned to take place at the same time, in order to minimise any future disruption to the local community.
Andy Mellars, Project Manager for Northern Gas Networks said:
“Diversion projects involve complex engineering and highly-skilled teams, and we are bringing in specialist heavy equipment and welding machinery to enable the work.
“To protect our teams and members of the public while we’re carrying out this work, unfortunately we will need to close a section of Footpath No.111006, between Dalston and Cummersdale from 15th August for up to six months.
“The footpath is still accessible from Cummersdale to Carlisle, however it won’t be possible to walk or cycle the entire thoroughfare from Dalston to Cummersdale.
“We have kept schools and parish councils updated on the plans, and we’ve worked very closely with Cumbria County Council’s Countryside Access Team to explore every alternative solution before reaching this conclusion, as we fully appreciate the inconvenience for local residents and walkers.
“We are extremely sorry for the disruption, this critical project may cause customers, but it’s essential that we complete it to ensure the safe and continued supply of gas to this part of Cumbria.
“As the work progresses, we’ll continue to review the access and keep the community updated on timescales.”
For further information about the work please 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.