Following our post informing you of High Lane’s closure at the end of July for utility work, the Parish Council is now able to clarify how the roadworks will operate and explain the reasons for their length.
Gas company Cadent report the closure is needed so they can replace 1,131 metres of cast iron gas pipes at High Lane.
Why do pipes have to be replaced now?
Replacing the pipes is part of a nationwide programme currently underway to upgrade old metal pipes with modern plastic ones by 2031.
The work is essential to ensure that the supply of gas to people’s homes isn’t disrupted this winter and beyond.
The installation of new polyethylene pipes makes it also possible to use hydrogen to heat homes, should this option be pursued to reach the UK’s Net Zero carbon-emission goals. Circulating hydrogen using the existing steel pipework is not possible.
Can’t the work be sped up?
Cadent plan to work 7 days a week to complete the project over as short a time as possible. But the digging up of the old pipes, installing new ones, sealing the surface and testing the installed infrastructure along High Lane will still take 83 days.
Are temporary traffic lights an option?
The utility company will not be working along the entire section between Cambridge Road and Lower Street at one time.
But, similar to the roadworks by Affinity Water along Cambridge Road and Silver Street at the start of the year, traffic signals cannot be used due to the narrowness of High Lane.
A minimum distance must be maintained between the workforce and passing traffic. Along High Lane there is insufficient space to allow part of the road to remain open and to keep this distance.
How will the closure operate?
The rolling closure will possibly see certain parts of High Lane open, at certain times, at the discretion of Cadent’s workforce. The road closure permit issued by Essex Country Council provides for pedestrian access to be maintained as well as to homes along the closure route.
Essex County Councillor Ray Gooding has also been advised that access will be afforded to cul-de-sacs off High Lane and the Catholic Church throughout.
Uttlesford District Council will be asked to monitor noise levels to reduce disturbance to residents during the works.
Who decides if roadworks happen?
Essex Highways say they do not have power or authority to stop or curtail work by infrastructure service providers. Neither does the Secretary of State. Neither do the Stansted Mountfitchet Parish Council but we will continue to update residents regarding the High Lane closure, should further information be provided by Essex County Council or Cadent.