Final phase of £253k Exeter gas works to shut key major road

Gas works in the Buddle Lane area of Exeter are continuing, with road closures and traffic lights set to remain in place as part of a £253,000 upgrade to the local network.

Wales & West Utilities has confirmed it is entering the final phase of the project, which began in October 2025 and is expected to finish in March 2026, subject to site conditions.

The work involves replacing ageing gas pipes to ensure a safe and reliable supply to homes and businesses in Exwick and Redhills, and to prepare the network for the future transportation of greener gases.

A series of road closures and traffic measures have been agreed with Exeter City Council to allow the scheme to progress while aiming to minimise disruption.

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Rolling traffic lights are currently operating on Buddle Lane and are due to remain in place until early February.

From 2 to 27 February 2026, Buddle Lane is scheduled to close between its junction with Isleworth Road, with three-way traffic lights in operation on Exwick Road, Redhills and Okehampton Road.

A further closure will affect Redhills between the junctions with Buddle Lane and Well Park Close from late February into March.

In the final stage of the project, Redhills will close between Buddle Lane and Well Park Close from 2 March until 27 March 2026, bringing the works to a close.

The utility company says signage is in place throughout the area, traffic lights are monitored remotely to keep vehicles moving where possible, and emergency services have been informed of the closures.

Roxanne Whittaker, who is managing the project for Wales & West Utilities, said the scheme remains on schedule.

“We are making good progress with this project and are on track to finish it during March,” she said.

“We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to ensure the network is fit for the future.”

She added that although most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in daily life.

“Whether it’s heating your home, cooking meals or having a hot bath, it’s vital that the gas supply is safe, reliable and there when people need it,” she said.

Traffic flows are being monitored throughout the project, with updates provided through local traffic bulletins and online channels.

The Redhills closure in March is expected to mark the completion of several months of work in the Buddle Lane area, ending a period of phased disruption for motorists travelling through Exwick and Redhills.