Northamptonshire village road to be shut for seven weeks to replace ageing gas main

A road in a south Northamptonshire villagewill be closed for seven weeks to replace an ageing and problematic gas main.

From Tuesday (May 26), Cadent engineers will be replacing an iron gas main in Stoke Bruerne with plastic pipes that the firm says will last until at least the end of the century.

The medium pressure pipe in Rookery Lane has undergone a series of repairs in recent years, causing disruption for drivers.

To complete the work, there will be temporary traffic lights on the A508 Northampton Road, at the junction of Rookery Lane and Ashton Lane

Rookery Lane will be closed from the junction of the A508 to Stoke Bruerne Cricket Club - a signed diversion route will be in place.

Cadent said the work will not require engineers to enter anyone’s homes and colleagues will observe social distancing from the public.

Darren Elsom, director of east network at the gas distributor, said: “This pipe is nearing the end of its life and the time has come to replace it.

"Once the new pipe is in the ground, people will be able to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies to heat their homes and cook their meals for decades to come.

“Having discussed this carefully with the local authority, we felt it would be sensible to start this work while Covid-19 restrictions were in place and traffic was lighter to minimise disruption to drivers and the local community.

“We would like to thank people for their patience while the work is carried out. Every effort will be made to complete this project as soon as possible.”

For more information about the work, call the customer service team on 0800 151 2404.