Get ready for a major shakeup in Shalford and Bramley, Surrey, as essential gas network upgrades are set to cause a 35-week disruption. This ambitious project aims to replace aging metal gas mains with modern, durable plastic pipes, but it's a massive undertaking that has local businesses worried.
The Impact on Local Trade
For Josh Howard, owner of The Nest coffee shop in Bramley, this project is a significant concern. He fears it will deter customers and impact his business, which is still recovering from a fuel leak incident in 2024 that contaminated the water supply. Ozzie Khan, who runs the King Fish chip shop, shares similar worries, believing the roadworks will discourage customers from visiting the village, adding to the challenges of high rent and business rates.
The Roadworks and Timeline
The work will involve rolling road closures on Chinthurst Lane in Shalford from March 23 for about 10 weeks. During this time, Poplar Road will also be closed at its junction with Chinthurst Lane for two weeks. The next phase will see temporary traffic lights installed on the A281 Horsham Road between Bramley and Shalford from April 7, with staggered closures on Snowdenham Lane, Links Road, and Foxburrow Hill Road to maintain traffic flow. The entire project is estimated to last until mid-November.
A Spokesperson's Perspective
An SGN spokesperson acknowledged the frustration roadworks can cause and apologized for any inconvenience. They emphasized the long-term benefits of the new plastic pipes, which have an 80-year lifespan, ensuring a safe and reliable gas supply for residents and businesses well into the future.
But here's where it gets controversial: Will the short-term pain of these disruptions be worth the long-term gain of a more reliable gas network? And this is the part most people miss: How do we balance the needs of essential infrastructure upgrades with the impact on local businesses and residents?
What do you think? Is this project necessary, or is it an overreaction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
