Wales & West Utilities has put the brakes on this weekend and has suspended its work in the Pwll Road area of Llanelli to allow the Sospan Sprint Triathlon to go ahead.
The gas emergency and pipeline service started the £300,000 gas pipe upgrade scheme earlier this month but has quickly cleared away traffic lights and associated equipment to allow the bike section of the event to go ahead freely.
The work, which is essential to keep the gas flowing to heat homes and power businesses in the area so that people are kept safe and warm for generations to come, will start up again on Monday and will continue through to the end of August. Once complete, more than 1650 metres of old metal gas pipe will have been upgraded to new plastic ones.
Ahead of the work starting Wales & West Utilities worked with Carmarthenshire County Council to keep disruption to a minimum and it is through this collaboration that the works have been suspended during this event.
The news has been met with delight by Race Organiser & Chairman of Healthy Life Activities Noelwyn Daniel who said:
“I am delighted that Wales & West Utilities has played a huge part in accommodating our event and I would like to express my thanks for co-operation and clearing the road.
“The Triathlon on Sunday is televised and will get worldwide exposure, so it’s fantastic that we now have a clear bike course.”
Wales & West Utilities Programme Controller for the area, Francis Kirk, is managing the work and said:
“We’re delighted to have played a small part in helping to allow this fantastic event to go ahead.
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Llanelli and the surrounding areas. 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 will not only keep the gas flowing safely and reliably today, it will also help make sure the gas network is fit for the future and can play its part in delivering reliable and affordable green energy.”
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.
The company also has a multi-million pound, 30-year gas pipe investment programme which began in 2002. Old metal pipes within 30 metres of buildings are being upgraded with new long-lasting plastic pipes with a lifespan of more than 80 years, to make sure homes and businesses continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply now and in the future.