Maldon: Essential gas work beginning in Cross Road next week

Gas company Cadent said work is set to begin on Tuesday, February 20 to replace ageing gas pipes in Cross Road.

It is to ensure residents are connected to safe and reliable gas supplies for cooking and heating.

The planned activity will involve decommissioning the current gas pipes. 

These measure over a quarter of a mile in length and were originally installed in 1945.

It is hoped the tough, newly installed pipes will last for decades, future proofing the Maldon network.

Following consultation with Maldon District Council and Essex County Council, Cadent has agreed to carry out the work between Tuesday, February, 20 and Tuesday, May 21.

Distribution - Gas company Cadent (Image: Cadent)

This is to ensure the upgrade can be carried out ahead of the summer holidays. 

In addition, it will require road traffic management to be in place along Cross Road from the junction of Fambridge Road to the junction of Wantz Road. 

Graham Huggett, Cadent project manager, said: “We have a responsibility to make sure every property that uses gas has access to it 24/7, 365 days a year and these essential works will mean that we continue to deliver on that promise.  

“We know it’s far from ideal to have any sort of traffic management in place in what is a busy area, but we have worked hard with the local authorities to create a plan that keeps traffic flowing and maintains access for local businesses and residents.  

“We are very conscious of the disruption roadworks cause and are in regular contact with the highways authority to keep them updated on our work which we will always complete as quickly and as safely as we can."  

Due to the nature of the work taking place, there will be times when the gas supply will be interrupted to properties along Cross Road. 

Residents whose gas supply is affected as part of the work will be contacted by Cadent.

A spokesman said gas supply is usually restored on the same day it goes off. 

Cadent advise people to immediately call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111999 if you smell gas.