Luton road closures as pipes installed at end of Second World War replaced
Essential work to replace gas pipes first installed at the end of the Second World War, is set to begin in Luton.
The work, in Hitchin Road, Lynwood Avenue and Stopsley Way, will include replacing 1,195 metres of ageing gas mains with tough new plastic pipes.
It starts on Saturday, July 18 and is expected to take 11 weeks to complete.
Engineers will be working during normal weekday hours but also between 8am and 3pm on Saturdays.
Phased road closures will be place on Hitchin Road with the first closure from the junction of Lynwood Avenue to the entrance of LBC Community Choices. The second phase will then run from the entrance of LBC Community Choices to the junction of St Thomas’ Road.
Temporary traffic lights will also be in place on Hitchin Road between Lynwood Avenue and Stopsley Way.
Cadent has worked with Luton Borough Council to plan the work and traffic management, but road users are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and follow the signed diversion routes.
Eleanor Buxton, head of work management at Cadent, said: “These pipes have been safely serving this part of Luton since 1945, the year World War II came to an end, but they now need to be replaced so we can keep gas flowing safely and reliably to homes and businesses for many years to come.
“We know roadworks can be frustrating, particularly on busy routes like Hitchin Road, and we’re sorry for the disruption this may cause.
“Our teams will be working as quickly and safely as possible, including on Saturdays, and we’ll continue to work closely with the highways authority throughout the project.
“We’d like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience while we complete this important upgrade.”
Gas supplies will stay on for most customers while the work is carried out. The only interruption to supply will be to properties that take a direct feed from the pipes being replaced. These properties will be disconnected for a short time while they are connected to the new pipe. Advance notice will be given, and more information will be provided directly to those affected.
The project is part of Cadent’s ongoing £123million investment to upgrade 395km of ageing gas pipes across the East of England.
If you smell gas, always ring the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999, day or night. Do not assume it is related to this work; it may not be and needs to be checked.