Wales & West Utilities is replacing over 1,750 metres of aging gas pipelines in Taunton to modernize the town’s energy network and alleviate traffic congestion. The vital infrastructure project started in late March, focusing on the Bishops Hull Road and Silk Mills Road areas, with an expected completion date in September, weather and engineering conditions permitting.
To address rising traffic volumes, the originally scheduled roadworks at the Wellington Road roundabout and Waterfield Drive have been brought forward to commence June 26. These works will span approximately three weeks. Following completion, a one-way traffic system north of Waterfield Drive will be relocated to ease congestion on the A38 Wellington Road.
Wales & West Utilities is working closely with Somerset Council to coordinate the schedule and minimize disruption for residents and commuters.
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Project manager Roxanne Whittaker expressed appreciation for community cooperation: “We appreciate the patience of local residents and drivers as we carry out this essential work. While such projects can be inconvenient, they are critical to ensuring a reliable gas supply for homes and businesses.”
Whittaker emphasized the importance of the project: “The gas network may be underground and out of sight, but it’s integral to daily life — heating homes, preparing meals, and providing hot water. Our efforts will not only maintain current service reliability but also prepare the network to safely handle hydrogen and biomethane, supporting a sustainable energy future.”
Serving 7.5 million customers across south west England and Wales, Wales & West Utilities encourages those with questions to contact their customer service team via freephone at 0800 912 2999, Twitter @WWUtilities, or Facebook.