OREANDA-NEWS. National Grid is carrying out a vital project to replace ageing gas mains in High Street Kensington, between the junctions with Adam and Eve Mews and Derry Street.

This essential work is due to begin on Monday 28 July and should be complete by Sunday 2 November 2014.

The existing ageing metal gas mains will be replaced with new tough, durable plastic pipes, which will help ensure the local community continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies for decades to come.

To enable work to be carried out there will be bus stop suspensions along the work route, though services will continue to run. There will also be traffic lane restrictions and diversion routes will be clearly signed.

National Grid is doing all it can to deliver the vital work as promptly as possible and with minimal inconvenience to the public.

Detailed underground surveys using special cameras have been carried out and trial excavations dug to ensure the best possible work routes are used. The new pipes are being inserted into the old mains wherever possible which will reduce the need for digging.

Engineers will also be working extended hours and seven day weeks when needed to ensure work can be completed as soon as possible.

Local residents and businesses have been informed about the work and special digital road signs will provide road users with up to date information.

National Grid has also liaised closely with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and local Highways Authority to plan the project, which has been scheduled to fit in around other work planned for the area.

Pat Nathan, National Grid project manager explained: “To ensure this vital work is delivered as smoothly as possible we've invested our time and resources in top notch engineering skills, high tech tools and careful planning involving discussions with other agencies.

“Once this vital work is complete the local community will have brand new gas mains which will help ensure this part of town continues to enjoy the safe and reliable gas supplies which help maintain London's status as one of the world's leading 21st century cities.”

The work should not affect to the local gas supply and the National Grid team will not require access to any properties in the area.