GAS mains replacement works in Upper Hale Road, between the junctions of Farnborough Road and Alma Lane, are set to cause traffic snarl-ups and disruption to residents for up to five months. Southern Gas Networks has announced it will begin work on Monday, January 23, and is anticipating finishing in late June. Athough access for residents will be maintained at all times, with businesses open as usual, through-traffic will be subject to diversion. The 1.5 km project is to replace iron gas pipes with new polyethylene pipe, which if left undisturbed, has a minimum lifespan of 85 years. This work forms part of a national programme agreed with the Health and Safety Executive, and will ensure the safe and continuous supply of gas to the area into the future, said the company. in a statement this week. The project will be carried out in six phases: Phase 1: Nutshell Lane to Oast House Lane – approx. five weeks Phase 2: Oast House Lane to White Cottage Close – approx. three weeks Phase 3: White Cottage Close to Farnborough Road - approx. two weeks Phase 4: Nutshell Lane to Wood Road – approx. four weeks Phase 5: Wood Road to War Memorial- approx. three weeks Phase 6: War Memorial to Alma Lane - approx. three weeks. According to Southern Gas Networks, road closures, diversions and advanced warning signs have been agreed with the Highways Authority and will be prominently displayed well in advance of the work. The company has been liaising with the local bus companies to formulate revised routes while the work progresses. Alan Downie, the network operations manager for the project, said: "The replacement of these pipes is essential, and we would ask the local residents and businesses for their co- operation and patience while the work progresses. "We do appreciate that there will be some inconvenience for local people, for which we apologise. "It is a major project, and the outcome will be a new system built to cope not only with today's gas demands, but also for those of the foreseeable future."
