'They never end!': Cadent responds to criticism of 11-week gas works on major route in Northampton

Thousands of motorists are facing delays as 11-week gas works began earlier this month (June) in Harlestone Road, near the crossroads to Firs View, Duston.

The work started on June 2 and is expected to continue until Friday, August 22, with ‘delays likely’, according to Cadent.

During this period, traffic control measures, including multi-way signals, are in place, which are likely to cause long queues at peak hours.

When the Chronicle and Echo published the original story, a handful of our readers were unimpressed.

Daphne Richardson said: “Unbelievable, they have had all the Harlestone Road up from Bants Lane to The Hart for the last nine months.”

Andrew Davenport wrote: “Can you explain to me why they are permitted to cause long delays? Why can't they employ a traffic management person to monitor the traffic and adjust the lights according to the actual flow and not pre-program to a fictitious traffic flow that is never correct. Oh yes, that would cost them money and dent their massive profits.”

Clive-Alan Holden said: “I think Cadent have blocked all of the roads in town for years, and then they start again, or some other utility digs it up again, but never a proper road surface after.”

Another added: “They never end! There seems to be a plan to make escape from Northampton difficult by systematically digging up main roads through and out of the town. I wouldn't mind, but as soon as they have completed a section, they feel obliged to start again.”

The Chron drove on the route at midday on Monday (June 16) and saw the temporary traffic lights had broken, leading to long queues.

Cadent has issued a statement responding to the criticism and explaining the reason for the works.

Richard Sansom, Network Director for Cadent in the East Midlands, said: “These works are part of a major £1.1 billion investment in our Eastern Network by Cadent which is vital in ensuring that we keep gas flowing to homes in Northamptonshire and beyond for generations to come.

“With gas pipes being decades old, it is essential that we replace them to futureproof our network and minimise the amount of repair work that we have to do in the area over the coming years. Keeping the people of Northampton warm in their homes is our number one priority. I can confirm that gas will stay on throughout the duration of these works.

“Unfortunately, due to some unforeseen and unavoidable challenges, we had to have a temporary delay in the middle of the works, and we are now picking them back up to complete.

“I understand that these works will cause inconvenience and frustration to residents and road users; this is understandable. However, we are doing all that we can to minimise disruption as we carry out these vital works and will continue to engage with the local community. I would urge everybody to allow for additional time in their journeys, and I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding as we seek to carry out the works as swiftly, but as safely as possible.”

Thousands of new homes are currently being built in the area.