Scores of gas engineers are actively engaged in restoring gas supplies to the South Hams area of Devon after a significant disruption caused by damage to a gas main. The incident occurred on January 3, 2024, when a third party damaged the main line in a field near Kingsbridge, cutting off gas to more than 4,600 homes and businesses.
Wales and West Utilities reported that by the evening of January 4, their teams had visited approximately 90 percent of the affected properties. Although the primary repair of the damaged gas main has been completed, the process of safely restoring gas to individual homes and businesses remains ongoing. The company clarified that engineers must visit each property twice: first to turn off the gas supply and then again to restore it and relight appliances once the network is ready.
Ongoing Efforts to Restore Services
As of January 6, 2024, over 100 engineers, many of whom were brought in from other areas of the network, are working tirelessly to restore gas supplies. A spokesperson for Wales and West Utilities provided updates on the restoration efforts, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation.
“Our teams have been working diligently since early this morning to restore supplies impacted by the third-party damage to our gas main near Kingsbridge,” the spokesperson said. “We have been able to make significant progress, thanks in large part to residents granting us access to their properties.”
In Kingsbridge, engineers are focused on restoring supplies to the remaining properties, while additional teams are working throughout Salcombe. The spokesperson mentioned that the presence of many residents in their homes has facilitated the restoration process.
Challenges Affecting the Restoration Timeline
One notable challenge is the presence of currently-empty second homes in the region, particularly in Salcombe, which has affected the speed of the gas restoration process. The company continues to encourage residents to allow engineers access to their properties to expedite the work.
Wales and West Utilities expressed gratitude for the community’s patience and support during this challenging time. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to restore supplies and value people’s continued support in enabling us to gain access to their properties,” the spokesperson added.
As work continues late into the evening, the commitment of over 100 engineers remains focused on restoring gas services safely and efficiently to the affected areas.
