Major project to replace gas mains in Sandwell starting in New Year

Drivers are being made aware of the work in Walsall Street starting on January 4, which may cause delays and disruption.

The scheme to replace 160 metres of cast iron pipes with plastic ones which will last at least 80 years is part of Cadent Gas’s £65 million investment in new gas pipes in the West Midlands.

Work will be carried out by Balfour Beatty on behalf of Cadent Gas Ltd.

Major traffic management will be in place for the duration of the work, which is expected to last around 11 weeks until March 12, 2021.

Walsall Street will be closed northbound between the island at High Bullen and Kendrick Street for all traffic travelling towards M6 J9.

Traffic travelling away from M6 J9 towards Wednesbury town centre will be unaffected.

Weight restriction

Pritchard Street will also be closed at the junction with Walsall Street. Clearly sign-posted local and motorway HGV diversions will be in place.

A 7.5 tonne environmental weight restriction will be operational on side roads in the vicinity of the works to discourage non-local and HGV motorway traffic from using these side roads.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for sustainable transport Councillor Jackie Taylor said: “The council has worked with Balfour Beatty to carefully plan traffic management and reduce congestion as far as possible while this work is being done.

“We realise that disruption from roadworks such as these can cause some frustration and would ask motorists to use the signed diversions, travel outside peak times if possible, allow extra time for journeys or you may choose to walk or cycle."

Sandwell Council’s deputy leader Councillor Maria Crompton added: “We're sorry for any inconvenience but this work is essential to ensure that homes and businesses in the north of the borough continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come.”