Road users are being advised to avoid Midland Road until early September while essential work is undertaken to replace ageing gas pipes.
The first phase is due to begin on Monday, 15 May, as engineers from Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, begin work to secure safe and reliable gas supplies.
The planned activity will be carried out in three stages and involves the removal of the current metallic gas pipe along Midland Road, to be replaced with tough new pipes which will last for decades. The work aims to futureproof the Bedford network.
The roadworks will require Midland Road to be closed in one direction between Monday 15 May and Friday 1 September and the upgrade will be carried out safely in the following stages:
- Phase One – Midland Road will be closed from the junction of Costin Street to the junction with Battison Street from Monday 15 May until Friday 23 June
- Phase Two – Midland Road will be closed from the junction of Battison Street to Prebend Street between Monday 26 June and Friday 21 July
- Phase Three – work will then take place in Midland Road from the junction of Rutland Road and Grafton Road between Monday 24 July and Friday 1 September.
Cadent Lead Delivery Engineer, Pete Day, 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 road closure in place in what is a busy area, but we have worked hard with Bedford Borough Council to create a plan that keeps traffic flowing and maintains access for local businesses and residents.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we complete this important work.”
Cadent teams have liaised with local stakeholders and councillors, with information sent to properties within the work area. Residents’ gas supply will stay on throughout.
