Major road into Nottingham set to close during huge gas works

The inward carriageway of Mansfield Road, by the Forest Recreation Ground, will be closed between February 22 and February 24 as part of the major Sherwood Rise gas works taking place.

The roundabout near Forest Fields in Nottingham is already affected by the works, which has seen the closure of Sherwood Rise and an impact on traffic both in and out of Nottingham.

It comes as gas network Cadent continue work to replace a kilometre of ageing gas pipes in the area, between Gregory Boulevard and Pelham Road – with the overall work expected to last until April 3.

It is part of a scheme costing hundreds of thousands of pounds, taking place over two phases, which will see road closures and roadworks in place for 20 weeks throughout 2020.

A spokesman for Nottingham City Council said: “Cadent Gas will be conducting major gas works as they replace a kilometre of ageing iron pipes with tough plastic pipes that will last well into the 22nd Century.

“The gas mains are up for renewal to maintain efficiency and ensure the safety of 2,000 residents. Works have been strategically planned for this time of year to avoid festival season and times of higher activity at Forest Recreation Ground.”

An increase in traffic flow on surrounding roads has already come into effect following the works’ start on January 6, but the closure of Mansfield Road is expected to have an impact on Pronto and Threes buses going into the city from Mansfield and Ashfield.

Paul Patrick, of Cadent, said: “With 77 per cent of homes in Nottingham relying on gas to keep warm it’s vital we continue our programme to modernise the city’s gas network.

“Unfortunately, owing to the position and size of the two pipes, we can only carry out the work safely under a road closure.

“We are working closely with Nottingham City Council to minimise any inconvenience to residents and businesses. Once the new pipes are in the ground we won’t need to renew them for 80 years.”