Exeter road closure extended as works hit fresh delay

Delays to road works have been confirmed for Exeter, with gas pipe replacement on Fore Street in Heavitree now expected to continue until 21 November.

Wales & West Utilities said the project has taken longer than planned due to restricted working hours.

The upgrade, which began in July, was originally scheduled to finish by 15 August. However, progress has been slowed as engineers have had to adjust their working patterns to maintain access for the University campus during weekdays. 

The essential scheme aims to upgrade ageing gas mains beneath one of Exeter’s busiest routes, helping to keep gas flowing safely to homes and businesses while preparing the city’s network for greener energy sources, such as hydrogen and biomethane.

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Lee Moore, Wales & West Utilities’ Performance Manager for Devon, said: “We are working in the Fore Street area of Exeter to upgrade the gas network. This work is essential to keep the gas flowing safely to heat and power local homes and businesses and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport greener gas in the future.”

“To do this safely, we have had a road closure in place along Heavitree Road, which was due to be lifted on 10 November. However, in agreement with Devon County Council, and in order to maintain access for the University campus during weekdays, we have only been able to work in some areas over the weekend.” 

“This has slowed our progress and means that we will now complete the project and reopen the road on 21 November.”

Adding to this, Lee said: “We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, and we are working as quickly and as safely as we can to complete this essential work.”

The gas company has said it has been working closely with Devon County Council to minimise disruption.