RESIDENTS are being warned to expect significant disruption in Hailsham as a major gas main replacement project gets underway later this month, bringing an eight-week closure of South Road and further traffic restrictions across the town until the end of October.
Gas network company SGN will begin urgent work on Monday, July 27, replacing a nearly 100-year-old gas main serving the area. The project will also involve phased works on Diplocks Way, Gordon Road and Ersham Road.
SGN says the ageing metal pipe has reached the point where it can no longer be repaired as a long-term solution.
A spokesperson said: “This gas main needs to be replaced. We can no longer provide long-term repairs, and replacing the pipe is the only permanent solution to avoid further disruptive repair works in the future.
“We’ll be installing a new plastic pipe with a lifespan of more than 80 years, ensuring a safer and more resilient network for local homes and businesses.”
South Road closure
The first phase of the project will see South Road closed to through traffic between South Close and Ersham Road for around eight weeks, beginning on Monday, July 27.
Once the road reopens, work will continue under temporary traffic signals towards No. 38 South Road until the South Road phase is completed, with the overall project expected to continue until October 31.
Access to homes and businesses will be maintained wherever possible, while pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to pass through the works. Signed diversion routes will be in place for motorists.
Further road closures
Additional phases of the project will affect several nearby roads:
- Diplocks Way – From August 10, the junction with South Road will be closed for around three weeks.
- Gordon Road – From August 24, the junction with South Road will close for approximately four weeks.
- Ersham Road (B2104) – From October 12, the section between South Road and Windsor Close will close for around three weeks. SGN says it will need to return in 2027 to complete the remaining replacement work on this phase.
Bus services will also be affected during the works, with passengers advised to check directly with their service provider for the latest timetable changes.
SGN said the project had been planned in consultation with East Sussex Highways and scheduled during the school summer holidays to help reduce disruption.
The company added: “We appreciate that this is a busy location and that the road closures will have a high impact on traffic.
“We’re committed to completing the project as quickly and safely as possible, while keeping disruption to a minimum. Throughout the work we’ll continue to work closely with East Sussex County Council and other key stakeholders to coordinate activity and keep the community informed.”
The works will be carried out by SGN’s principal contractor, I&G Contractors Limited.
If you need to get in touch, residents can contact sgn.co.uk/Contact-SGN or call the customer team on 0800 912 1700.
