Major roadworks on a bypass begin this weekend and will take longer than originally planned.
Work to install a new section of pipeline under the A6 Blackrod bypass will begin on Sunday, but motorists are told the road will remain open at all times.
The scheme is to meet demand for a new power generation site, which will use gas to generate electricity for the local area, as well as a new property development.
It has been described as a ‘major engineering’ project and is now expected to last beyond the school summer holidays.
All roads are expected to remain open, although there may be a requirement for a brief road closure towards the end of the project.
READ MORE: Blackrod Bypass heading into 15-week Cadent gas network works
There should be no impact on anyone’s gas supply.
Cadent, which manages the local gas network, has assigned two teams to install around 2,000 meters of new pipeline under the A6, between Chorley Road and Station Road.
This is the length equivalent to about 20 football fields.
Three new strong plastic pipes are to be added to the local grid, one of which, with a diameter of 630mm, is about the same diameter as a large car tire.
Blackrod Bypass junction with Chorley Road (Image: Google Maps)
Cadent will also replace the ‘governor’ station at the junction of the A6 Blackrod Bypass and Chorley Road with an upgraded station. These governors manage the pressure of the gas to help you move safely on your journey underground.
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Mark Syers, head of Cadent North West’s investment planning office, said: “While our bread and butter deliver gas to people’s homes, where it is used for heating, hot water and cooking, we also supply generating sites of energy.
“There are times in the UK when up to 50 per cent of electricity comes from these types of gas-fired plants. Our job is to ensure that gas can be transported in the necessary volumes and safely. That’s why we need to strengthen our network here in Bolton.
“This is major engineering and months have been planned to ensure it is done safely and keeping this road open.
“The work area will be kept to one side of the two-lane road, with lights that manage the safe flow of traffic around it.
“We know this will inevitably cause congestion, but we hope people understand why completion is essential. We will keep everyone updated as we progress.
READ MORE: Chorley New Road junction to be completed in March
“The installation of the new pipeline also helps future-proof this part of the grid, helping to ensure it is ready to deliver hydrogen when it begins to arrive in the Northwest soon.
“Hydrogen is key to securing a net zero energy future.”
Advance warning signs are in place, while client teams have sent information to properties in the immediate area around the works, visiting most to explain what is happening.
All businesses in the area will remain open.