Upgrading our network in Gillingham
Our gas infrastructure underpins homes, hospitals, schools and businesses across southern England and Scotland. Much of it was built decades ago and, while it continues to operate safely today, some assets are reaching the end of their engineering life.
SGN is investing to upgrade a section of our old pipes in the Lower Rainham Road area to ensure a safe, reliable and resilient network for thousands of Gillingham residents who depend on it every day, while enabling the long-term transition to lower-carbon energy systems.
The project will begin on Monday 16 November and is expected to last approximately six weeks.
Replacing our pipes in Lower Rainham Road
Following several gas leaks and subsequent emergency network repairs in the area, we've been working with Medway Council to develop a long-term solution. Rather than continuing to repair our old metal mains, we'll be replacing it with new plastic pipe. This will help reduce the risk of future leaks and maintain a safe a reliable gas supply to Gillingham homes and businesses for many years to come.
To complete this work safely, we'll need to implement a rolling road closure on Lower Rainham Road, between the entrance to Riverside Country Park and the junction with Lower Twydall Lane.
As the project progresses, the closure will move with our engineers, helping us keep the affected area as small as possible and minimise disruption to the community.
A signed diversion route will be in place for motorists throughout the project. Bus services are also expected to be affected, and passengers are advised to contact their transport provider directly for the latest information on any changes to routes, timetables and bus stop locations.
We appreciate a road closure on Lower Rainham Road will be disruptive for residents, businesses and those travelling through the area. By carrying out this planned replacement now, we can help avoid further emergency repairs and unplanned road closures in the future.
Why this project matters
Strengthening critical infrastructure
These upgrades will improve safety and reliability for the Gillingham community
Avoids short-notice disruption
Not investing in upgrades here risks unplanned gas outages, emergency repairs and greater long-term disruption
Delivering energy sustainably
Renewing our pipes will help cut methane emissions and support the transition to renewable gases such as biomethane