Commuters face two months of disruption whilst gas mains replacement works are carried out on a busy dual carriageway.
The speed limit on A50 at Blythe Bridge has been reduced to 40mph and there will be various lane closures in both directions until 20 August.
The affected stretch runs from where Lysander Road and A521 meet the A50 to Tean roundabout slip road.
Cadent, who manages the gas network in the West Midlands, initiated the lane closures yesterday, Monday 12 June, ready for work to begin today.
The project, which Cadent says represents an investment of over £500,000, aims to replace ageing gas pipes with more durable plastic ones that will supply energy to 10,000 homes and businesses.
The firm says the upgrade will also help to get the gas network ready for low-carbon hydrogen and a greener future.
Craig Chittem, Cadent’s Lead Delivery Engineer for the project said: “Our job is to keep gas flowing to heat homes, schools, offices and many other buildings in the local area, as well as future-proof the network ready for greener gases like hydrogen.
“During this project we’ll be replacing around 300m Ductile iron with durable plastic that will reinforce the gas network and secure the gas supply for nearly 10,000 homes and businesses.
“It’s a big but vital project and we’re trying to work as quickly and as safely as possible to limit the disruption to the community. We want to thank everyone for their patience whilst we complete these works”.
Cadent plans to complete the work in three phases. These are:
Phase 1 –Monday 12 June to Friday 30 June. Down to one lane, lane closure both directions
Phase 2 – Saturday 1 July to Sunday 16 July. Lane closure with one lane eastbound on the Bypass remaining open
Phase 3 – Thursday 17 August to Sunday 20th August. Lane closure both directions, down to one lane
There is due to be a total road closure on Sunday 20 August, whilst the road closure is dismantled.
Customers with questions about the works can contact Cadent Customer Services on 0800 389 8000 or email [email protected]
