700 metres of aging gas mains to be replaced in Bretton as road closures begin

Cadent is replacing 700 metres of ageing metal mains along Flaxland, Hudds Meadow and Rightwell East, Peterborough. The existing pipes will be replaced with modern plastic pipes which will future proof the local network for decades to come.

Following consultation with the local council, Cadent has agreed to carry out this essential work over an eight-week period from 27 August to 16 October 2026.

A road closure will be in place along Flaxland from the junction with the side road to Aldi and where Rightwell East road has begun (the side road junction to the Bretton Medical Practice). There will be no through traffic from 1 September for up to four weeks on Flaxland except for buses only.

The closures had caused concern – as initially, it was feared bus services would be impacted – however, a solution has now been found.

Temporary traffic lights will be used on Hudds Meadow and Rightwell East to complete the final section of work for this project.

Amber Greensmith, Head of Customer Experience at Cadent, said: “The metallic pipes that are in place in this section of the network have been very well used over the past 60 years and it’s time for them to be replaced so that we can continue to deliver gas to peoples' homes 24/7, 365 days a year.

“These upgrades also have big environmental gains, as they reduce methane emissions and enable a move to more renewable gases like biomethane. This is essential for a cleaner future – the UK will need energy to come from a range of sources to meet demand and be sustainable.

“No gas supplies will be impacted whilst we complete this project. We hope people understand this project is essential to maintain a long-term safe gas supply.”

The project is part of a £123million investment this year, which will see more than 395km of pipes upgraded across the East of England.

If you smell gas, always ring the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999, day or night.