Loss of gas supply to Marsden Village

Engineers have begun to reconnect gas supplies in the village of Marsden, near Huddersfield in West Yorkshire.

Around 2,000 homes and businesses lost their supply late on Saturday, 4th March, after a gas main feeding the area fractured.

More than 80 engineers have been working in the village to ensure the gas pipeline system remains safe. They had to ensure all gas meters in homes and businesses were turned off before they could begin to recommission supplies during the evening of Monday, 6th March.

Gas supplies will be restored in a phased and carefully managed manner.

Northern Gas Networks and its operating partner United Utilities apologises for the inconvenience which local people have experienced.

The safety of villagers is paramount at all times. There are no short-cuts which can be taken.

To date, more than 2,000 fan heaters and 600 hot plates have been distributed. Anyone who requires further supplies should collect them from the Parochial Church Hall, off Towngate. Anyone unable to visit in person should call the information line on 0191 501 4324 between 8am and 8pm. Outside those hours contact can be made via the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Northern Gas Networks recognises the patience and fortitude which has been shown by local people.

"We are very grateful that the local people appear to understand that interruptions to gas supplies happen very infrequently and that we are working as hard and as quickly as possible to restore the situation to normal," said Communications Director John O'Grady. "We cannot and will not cut corners to make things happen any quicker. Safety will be our top priority at all times."

Kirklees Social Services department and the WRVS continue to provide hot meals and drinks at the Mechanics Institute in Peel Street, which was one of the first buildings to have its gas restored.

If you need further information, please contact us via the following methods:

The Northern Gas Networks website (www.northerngas.co.uk);
Our Helpline on 0191 501 4324 (8am to 8pm); or
Via the national Gas Emergency Service (0800 111 999).

Thank you for your understanding at this challenging time.