Gas pipes around Reydon and Southwold are set to be replaced as part of a major scheme that will see work carried out until April next year.

The project is due to start in Reydon next week, as existing pipelines, which were originally installed in the 1930s and 1940s, are upgraded.

In total, it will see around 12.9km - equivalent to 8.01 miles - of metallic pipe replaced by the UK's biggest gas distribution network, Cadent Gas.

People and business owners in Reydon and Southwold are being invited to a meeting this week with members of the Cadent team to learn more about upcoming work, that is due to take place in the two locations.

The public meeting will be held between 3.30pm and 5.30pm on Thursday, July 25 at Reydon Village Hall on Lowestoft Road.

The One Network Highways map showing the planned gas works in Reydon. Picture: Causeway One NetworkThe One Network Highways map showing the planned gas works in Reydon. Picture: Causeway One Network (Image: Causeway One Network)

A Cadent spokesman said: "The event will give everyone the opportunity to learn more about the necessity for the project and how the work will affect everyone on a day-to-day basis.

"The planned work will involve the decommissioning of the current metallic gas pipes, and installing tough new pipes which will last for decades, future-proofing the local gas network."

'A very busy area'

After consultation with Suffolk County Council, Cadent will carry out the works starting next Monday, July 29 with it planned to last 36 weeks until April 2025.

According to the One Network highways map, works will take place on Wangford Road and Jermyns Road in Reydon between July 29 and August 26; on Windsor Road, Reydon between August 12 and August 26 and on Pier Avenue, Southwold from August 26 until September 9, with further works to follow in neighbouring streets.

Some road closures are set to be in force as the work is carried out in stages - with the majority of works appearing to be taking place in Reydon.

Cadent project manager, Gary Tidman, said: "We know it’s far from ideal to have any sort of traffic management in place in what is a very busy area, particularly during the summer holidays, but we have worked hard with the local authority to create a plan that keeps traffic flowing and maintains access for local businesses, residents, and tourists.

"We are very conscious of the disruption roadworks cause and that is why we want to hold this information event so that people can learn more about the work that we are doing and the stages in which it will be carried out."