Gas emergency and pipeline service, Wales & West Utilities, is ending 2017 on a high after investing more than £7.7 million to upgrade the gas network across Exeter and the surrounding area.

The work has involved upgrading over 56km of old metal pipes to new long-lasting plastic pipes and upgrading more than 4,500 individual service pipes that supply homes and businesses. This essential work will keep the gas flowing and prepare the gas network for the future.

Dominic Tester, Wales & West Utilities Programme Controller for the area, said: 

“My team are working hard to upgrade old metal gas pipes to new plastic ones across Exeter and the surrounding area – essential to keep the gas flowing to heat homes and power businesses in the area and keep local families safe and warm for generations to come.

“Every year across Wales and the south west of England we replace 400km of pipe.  We know our work can be disruptive, but we really appreciate the support of local people as we do our work –keeping the gas flowing and preparing the gas network for the future.”

Wales & West Utilities, the gas emergency and pipeline service that serves the south west of England and Wales, puts customers at the heart of the business and is rated the top utility company in the UK for customer service. 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 replaced 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.