Wales & West Utilities Programme Controller for Somerset, Barry Sale said:
“We’re starting work on 1 October on the A371 Wells Road in Draycott to upgrade over 750m of old metal gas pipes to new plastic ones. This £215,000 investment is essential to keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we expect to finish our work in December 2018. To keep the local community, road users and our colleague’s safe while we are working, A371 Wells Road will be closed in phases while we work. All diversion routes will be clearly signposted.
“We have worked with Somerset County Council to keep disruption to a minimum. We have liaised closely with Bristol Water and Gigaclear, who also need to work in the area. Public transport will be affected by the road closure and not serve some stops on A371 Wells Road. We’ve funded shuttle buses to make sure that these communities continue to have a bus service while we’re working. Access will be maintained for the emergency services at all times.
"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. Our engineers will be working Monday to Saturday, and some Sundays where required, to finish our work as safely and as quickly as possible. We will be working extended hours in the day. Due to the proximity of our work to homes, it is not feasible to work overnight.
“Anyone who has any questions or queries about our work can contact our Customer Service Team on 0800 912 2999 or by enquiries@wwwutilities.co.uk. Alternatively, you can contact us on Twitter @WWUtilities of Facebook.com/WWUtilities.
“We really appreciate the patience of the local community while we do this essential work."
Our work
- Phase One will start on 01 October and see Wells Road closed at its junction with School Lane and The Street for three weeks
- Phase Two will start on 22 October and see Wells Road closed at its junction with The Street and Wet Lane for two weeks
- Phase Three will start on 5 November and see Wells Road closed at its junction with Wet Lane and Bay Lane for three weeks
- Phase Four will start on 26 November and see Wells Road closed at its junction with Bay Lane and Oakland House for two weeks.
For more information on other utilities work in the area click here.