Major gas mains project to take place in Whitchurch
Major work to upgrade a gas pipeline in Whitchurch which helps keep thousands of homes warm, is set to begin on Monday, 5 January 2026.
Cadent, which manages the local gas distribution network, is calling time on an ageing section of pipeline which runs under the B5395 Chester Road.
This pipe is an essential part of the network which carries gas to a substantial number of local homes, but there will be no disruption to the flow of gas to the area while the work takes place.
The project is part of a £75m investment by Cadent this year, which will see more than 385km of pipes upgraded in North West England.
As well as ensuring a reliable and safe supply of gas now, it will help get the local gas network ready for more cleaner gases, like biomethane.
More than 1,700 metres of pipeline will be upgraded during this work in Chester Road, Whitchurch. Works starts on 5 January 2026 and is likely to extend into May.
For the first phase of work, there will be a lane closure on Chester Road (no left turn from the A49 roundabout onto Chester Road, heading towards Whitchurch). A diversion will be signposted.
Later phases are likely to require traffic lights or a full road closure for periods of time (both directions of travel), with vehicles diverted to take the A49 Whitchurch Bypass and B5476 Tarporley Road.
The decision on whether any full road closures are needed can only be taken once work begins, when the precise location of where the current gas pipeline is under the road can be determined.
Access will be maintained for residents.
Lucy Sterry, Head of Work Management at Cadent (North West Network), said: “Here at Cadent, we have a responsibility to make sure every property that uses gas has access to a safe and reliable supply, 24/7, 365 days a year.
“We’re carrying out this essential work in Chester Road to replace one of our oldest pipelines in the area.
“In this part of Shropshire, more than 85 per cent of homes have gas central heating. Upgrading this pipeline will ensure we can continue to distribute gas safely to them, for many decades to come.
“The technology we use for a replacement project like this means gas stays on throughout, so please do not worry about that.
“We are very conscious of the disruption works like this cause and hope people can accept this project is essential to maintain a safe gas supply.”
