Darryl Goddard, Wales & West Utilities Area Engineering Manager for South West England said:
“Contractors working to build a new Ikea store in the Newcourt Way area of Exeter yesterday evening (26 October) seriously damaged the gas network. We had to temporarily turn the gas off to approximately 1000 homes in the area to repair it safely.
“The repair is now complete and the majority of the homes affected are now back on gas. At homes where the residents are away, we have left a card with information on how to contact us so we can turn their gas back on safely when they return.
“This was a very complex job and we would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding while we repaired the damage caused to the gas network by contractors working in the area.
“Wales & West Utilities, the gas emergency and pipeline service, takes pride in serving the south west of England and Wales. If anyone smells gas, thinks they have a gas leak, or suspects carbon monoxide poisoning, they should call us on 0800 111 999 and our engineers will be there to help, day or night.”