Gas upgrade work progresses in Barnstaple

Work to upgrade part of the gas network in Barnstaple is progressing well.

Wales & West Utilities, which started the work in the North Road area of the town in July, is now progressing to the Victoria Road area. 

The gas company has said the work is essential to keep the gas flowing safely and reliably to local homes and businesses, keeping people warm. 

Wales & West Utilities has liaised with Devon County Council to plan all works, and the following has been agreed as part of the next phase of work:

• The exit from the Victoria Road Roundabout towards Eastern Avenue will be closed.
• There will also be an access-only closure from the road from Alexandra Road to Victoria Road Roundabout (2 – 15 January).
• There will also be overnight closures on 6 and 7 January on Eastern Avenue, towards Victoria Road Roundabout, in both directions. HGV diversions will be in place from Alexandra Road Roundabout.
• A left turn only on the Victoria Road Roundabout for vehicles travelling from the road from Alexandra Road to Victoria Road, with a no right turn from Victoria Street at the Victoria Road Roundabout (15 – 28 January).

Wales & West Utilities' Roxanne Whittaker is managing this gas pipe upgrade work and said:

“We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future. We’ll have a team of gas engineers on site throughout the project to make sure our work is completed as safely and as quickly as possible while keeping disruption to a minimum.

“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Barnstaple. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.

“This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future.”