A NIGHTMARE pipe that has leaked gas six times in the past 18 months bringing gridlock to Fulham is finally set to be fixed.
Each time the faulty pipe, which is in Kings Road before the bridge that borders Chelsea, breaks, National Grid Gas has to install temporary traffic lights while it is repaired.
But now the firm is to replace the pipe with a new main, which it hopes will solve the problem.Work to the carriageway will begin on Monday and is expected to last for seven weeks.
The eastbound lane of Kings Road, between Waterford Road and Sandford Street will be closed with a diversion in place via New Kings Road, Harwood Road and Fulham Road into Edith Grove and back into Kings Road. The westbound lane will open as normal.
Both Cambria Street and Edith Row will be closed to traffic at certain times during the carriageway works, so the fire gate on Michael Road will be open. Residents of Maynard Close will be diverted via Cambria Street, Michael Road and Waterford Road.
The scheme must finish no later than June 30 – the final day planned highways work is allowed to go ahead in the capital before the Olympics embargo on roadworks on July 1.
Some businesses have complained about the disruption the work will cause but Hammersmith and Fulham Council deputy leader Nick Botterill said: “This gas main has been a constant thorn in the side of residents, businesses and commuters on a very busy road for some time. While the problem needs to be solved we have pressed National Grid to introduce measures that minimise disruption.
“National Grid has agreed to extend its working hours so the job is completed as quickly as possible and, following requests from traders, keep fire gates open where it is safe and appropriate to do so.”
The council says it has consulted residents, businesses and Transport for London on the situation, while National Grid Gas has sent letters to out to householders about the works.
l Working hours will be: Monday to Friday, 8am–10pm, Saturday, 8am–8pm, and Sunday, 10am–6pm as and when required. Call the National Grid’s customer team on 0845 246 1285.
