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Northern Gas Networks to carry out essential upgrade work to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply in Swalwell, near Gateshead

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Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the Hexham Road area of Swalwell near Gateshead.

The ageing main has undergone several recent emergency repairs, so has now been prioritised for urgent replacement. The ageing metal pipework is now being replaced by new, more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers.

The work will start on Monday 29 March and is expected to last for six weeks. It has been planned in collaboration with Gateshead Council.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being carried out in the street, following Government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible. There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe and ensure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

So that engineers can carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect the public, some traffic management measures will be put in place from Monday 29 March for two weeks.

The side road which links Market Lane to Long Rigg will be closed for the full two weeks, and two-way temporary traffic lights will be in place on Market Lane whilst the work is carried out. These lights will be manned Monday to Saturday between the hours of 7am and 6pm, to help the traffic keep flowing.

There will be a footpath diversion for pedestrians in place from Hexham Road to Market Lane. Due to the location of our gas main there will be no pedestrian access via Brewery Bank.

Signs will be displayed for motorists and a full signed diversion put in place.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being carried out in the street and engineers will follow Government guidelines for safe distance working of at least two metres wherever possible.

Engineers will only request entry to a customer’s property if it is absolutely necessary; in order to ensure their safety, to keep the gas supply flowing, or at a customer’s request.

Fergal O’Donovan, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these essential works. However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the residents of Swalwell.

“NGN is continuing to carry out essential services while following strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and observing health and safety guidance during the current restrictions in England.

“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

As well as NGN’s critical service (which include responding to gas emergencies, carrying out emergency repairs and critical maintenance activities) engineers are continuing to carry out work to upgrade critical infrastructure, including planned work to replace ageing metal gas pipes, where most of the work can be carried out safely in the street.

Customers can read more about our Covid Secure Promise here.

For further information about the work please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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Northern Gas Networks offers opportunity to invest in a greener future

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The region’s gas distributor, Northern Gas Networks (NGN) has launched a green transition bond, giving the public the opportunity to invest in a hydrogen-ready network for the first time.

NGN has teamed up with Abundance, the UK’s leading ethical investment crowdfunding platform, to launch the bond which will help fund the upgrade of pipes to prepare the gas distribution network to transport hydrogen.

It’s the first time a regulated energy distributor has offered a green transition bond exclusively for members of the public, allowing everyone to participate in the transition to net zero emissions.

The investment, in Northern Gas Networks’ Finance Plc, seeks to raise £1 million through a lower-risk, long term investment with returns of 1.6 per cent a year over a 10-year term. As with all Abundance products, the minimum investment is just £5.

Unlike the natural gas currently transported through the UK’s gas network, hydrogen produces no carbon when used, making it a viable fuel for homes and industry to meet the government’s target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

As part of NGN’s plans to transition its network to net zero, three quarters of the region’s pipework has already been upgraded from metallic mains to polyethylene and the investment will help replace a further 2,900 km by 2026. This brings two major carbon cutting benefits: it creates a hydrogen-ready gas network; and will make an impact on carbon targets by reducing emissions from the day to day operation of the network.

A third of UK carbon emissions come from heating our homes and businesses, posing a big challenge for decarbonisation. With eight out of 10 UK homes currently heated with natural gas, the option of piping in clean-burning hydrogen as an alternative fuel offers exciting potential for the transition to a low carbon energy future.

Mark Horsley, CEO, Northern Gas Networks, said: “The UK energy sector is facing an exciting transition. Whilst focus is often placed on how energy production must change, the networks that distribute our energy must change too. At NGN, we’re delivering on a clear plan for a Net Zero carbon network by 2050. Working in collaboration with our regulator, Ofgem, central government and the energy industry across the UK, our research is proving that hydrogen offers a safe, affordable and deliverable Net Zero solution, and with this investment we want our customers to be involved in this important transition. Repurposing the gas network to transport hydrogen is likely to be the least disruptive and most cost effective solution to zero carbon home heating for the vast majority of the UK homes.”

NGN delivers gas to 2.7 million homes and businesses in the North East, Northern Cumbria and much of Yorkshire and Humber.

From late spring 2021, NGN will be distributing a blend of hydrogen and natural gas to 670 homes near Gateshead, subject to approval from the Health and Safety Executive. Later in the year, they are planning their first live trials of 100 per cent hydrogen on an unoccupied section of network.

NGN is offering this investment in its net zero vision to the public. As the first regulated energy distribution company to launch a green bond exclusively for the public, the company wants to let everyone participate in the green transition.

Gareth Mills, NGN’s Director of Regulation and Strategic Planning added: “We want to give the communities we serve the opportunity to help with this transition by investing directly into our pipe replacement programme. It provides a means by which we can engage with each other on the energy transition, build trust and create a roadmap to Net Zero that feels like a just transition for all.”

Bruce Davis, co-founder and Managing Director, Abundance, said: “Abundance’s customers want to back a range of solutions to deliver a Net Zero future, and this is the first time we’ve been able to offer them something that directly tackles heating in the home. It’s also the first time we’ve worked with a major utility which has chosen crowdfunding to enable their customers to participate directly in the Net Zero transition.

“The development of hydrogen, alongside other technologies like heat pumps, offers a practical solution that will make a real difference to cutting emissions. The UK needs urgent investment in the infrastructure that can deliver this if we are going to meet our targets to decarbonise how we heat our homes.”

To find out more and download an offer document, please visit www.abundanceinvestment.com/northern-gas-networks.

 

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Northern Gas Networks and BP announce hydrogen collaboration

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The North of England’s gas distributor, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), has announced it is collaborating with BP to explore the potential of hydrogen for meeting the Government’s target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Unlike the natural gas currently transported through the UK’s gas network, hydrogen produces no carbon when burned, making it a viable green fuel for homes and industry in a net zero future.

NGN and BP have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on hydrogen, reflecting the synergies between NGN’s vision to decarbonise the gas network via a hydrogen conversion and BP’s ambition to develop large-scale hydrogen production facilities.

BP has announced it is developing plans for the UK’s largest blue hydrogen production facility at a site in Teesside, targeting 1GW of hydrogen production by 2030.

The initial focus of NGN’s work with BP will be a number of studies to ensure that the hydrogen production facility is ideally placed to meet the demands of industrial and domestic consumers in the Teesside area.

Mark Horsley, Chief Executive Officer at NGN, said: “It’s fantastic to see BP planning to invest in hydrogen production at Teesside, placing our region at the forefront of a green recovery.

“We’re very excited to be working with BP to explore further the potential of a hydrogen gas network to play a lead role in industrial and domestic heat decarbonisation.  Ahead of COP 26 in November, collaborations such as this demonstrate the scale of the ambition to meet the net zero challenge and support the UK’s transition to a zero-carbon energy system.”

Louise Jacobsen Plutt, BP’s senior vice president for hydrogen and CCUS said: “We are very excited to work with NGN on decarbonising the gas network via hydrogen conversion. Developing hydrogen into gas networks is a key part of bringing the benefits of hydrogen to as many people as possible. NGN has shown great leadership in collaborating with partners in order to meet net zero ambitions.”

As lead partner in the H21 project, NGN is spearheading a suite of pioneering gas industry projects, aimed at proving that the existing UK gas network can be converted to transport 100% hydrogen.

The projects have already demonstrated that it is economically and financially viable for the UK’s gas network to be repurposed to carry hydrogen and areas of focus now include assessing the changes needed to operational procedures to ensure a hydrogen gas network can be run as safely and reliably as today’s natural gas network.

In addition, NGN is partnering with the government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and fellow gas distribution network company Cadent to build the first houses to demonstrate the use of hydrogen-fuelled appliances.

The houses, at NGN’s Low Thornley site near Gateshead will be opening to the public in summer 2021 to showcase hydrogen appliances which look and feel like those used today, but create no carbon.

From spring 2021, the community of Winlaton near Gateshead will see 670 properties receive a blend of 20% hydrogen as part of the HyDeploy project, subject to Health and Safety Executive approval.

HyDeploy is demonstrating that a blend of hydrogen can be introduced to the gas network without impacting customers, providing a potential stepping-stone to 100 per cent hydrogen gas networks in the future.

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Northern Gas Networks to carry out critical works to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to homes and businesses in Kirkstall, Leeds

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Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Kirkstall, Leeds.

The ageing metal pipework is now being replaced by new, more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers.

The work will start at 8am on Thursday 18th March 2021, on Bridge Road in Kirkstall. It will last for around two weeks and has been planned in collaboration with Leeds City Council.

Due to the current national lockdown, NGN is prioritising work in line with government guidance, carrying out safety-critical services including responding to gas emergencies, emergency repairs and maintenance as well as planned work to replace ageing metal gas mains which need to be carried out urgently.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work will be carried out in the street, following government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible. There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe, and sure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

In order for our engineers to carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect members of the public, some traffic management measures will be necessary.

A road closure will be in place on Wyther Lane at the junction of Broad Lane from Friday 19 March to Saturday 27 March. There will be then a second closure at the junction of Bradford Road from Friday 26 March to Wednesday 31 March.

A clear signposted diversion will be in place during the works, so that motorists can use an alternative route.

Engineers will observe safe distance working and wear the appropriate PPE at all times.

James Knox, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have worked closely with Leeds City Council to plan these essential works and would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused, however it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to homes and businesses in Leeds.

“NGN is continuing to carry out essential services whilst observing strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and following health and safety guidance during the Coronavirus outbreak.

“We want to assure members of the public and road users that we will be working hard to complete this scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

You can find out more about the steps that NGN is taking to keep customers and colleagues safe during the Coronavirus outbreak at www.northerngasnetworks.co.uk

For further information about the work please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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Just one in five Brits think that we will meet the net zero carbon target by 2050, new nationwide report reveals

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A new research report from Teesside University has found that while people have concerns about reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, support for a greener future post-pandemic is strong.

The research, conducted by YouGov* and commissioned by North of England gas distributor Northern Gas Networks, also saw one in three people (30 per cent) say that they are unsure whether Great Britain could be carbon neutral within the next 30 years.

However, with the Covid-19 pandemic continuing to disrupt the economy, the report also concludes that people want to see greener policy commitments at the top of the agenda when the country begins to ‘build back better’.

The research, published today, finds that close to two-thirds (64 per cent) of respondents think that the country should take the opportunity to rebuild the post-pandemic economy in a way that is greener and better for the environment.

The research also found that:

  • Despite the immediate challenges associated with the pandemic, most people are as concerned about the environment as they were before the coronavirus outbreak (59 per cent), or even more concerned (14 per cent). As a combined total, that represents nearly three quarters of the adult population (73 per cent);
  • More 18 to 24-year-olds in Great Britain want the Government to prioritise unlocking investment in green energy (20 per cent) than on job creation (15 per cent), and
  • Of those who said that Great Britain should take the opportunity to rebuild in a way that is greener and better for the environment, more than a third (35 per cent) think a green recovery will help to bring communities together.

The report, A Climate for Change, investigates the current public attitudes around climate change and the shift to greener energy sources, as well as economic and environmental priorities. It has been written by Professor Matthew Cotton, Senior Fellow of Human Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of York and Chair of Public Policy at Teesside University.

Professor Cotton said: “The findings clearly show that public support for a green recovery is strong.  It is significant in the current circumstances that the youngest survey respondents prioritised green innovation ahead of job creation, considering the negative impact of Covid-19 on the labour market that many in this age group will now be entering.

“Reaching net zero requires big, but achievable, changes; both to society and to the ways in which our economy can grow sustainably.

“As individuals, the concept of ‘think global – act local’ is relevant. The benefits of ‘building back better’ are not limited to the environment and regaining economic prosperity, but also to the opportunity to promote positive social values and bring diverse groups together, as highlighted by many people taking part in our research.

“Businesses have a responsibility to provide environmental and community-led initiatives as part of the nation’s recovery.”

The report follows the £160 million post-pandemic Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution that was announced by Boris Johnson in November 2020, and the subsequent Energy White Paper ‘Powering Our Net Zero Future’, which outlines a range of solutions to address current climate issues, with the move to boost hydrogen production being central to the government’s proposals.

The North of England is driving forward innovation in green infrastructure and collaboration between government, industry and private business is powering growth in a new hydrogen economy.

Northern Gas Networks is involved in several research and demonstration projects within Yorkshire, Cumbria and the North East, each designed to help the country achieve its net zero emissions target.

It commissioned a second YouGov survey** for the report, to investigate the opinions of residents in Northern England, which has found that:

  • 60 per cent of those asked said that investing in green infrastructure would help the region to work towards achieving the net zero target;
  • 42 per cent consider one of the benefits of using hydrogen to be that it’s a clean alternative to fossil fuels for heating homes and businesses, and
  • 31 per cent identified a lack of commitment from government to make policy decisions to achieve net zero as a top concern, regarding how the country is responding to climate change.

Mark Horsley, CEO of Northern Gas Networks, said: “Our research nationally and in the North of England demonstrates clear public support for urgent climate action. The findings also show that Great Britain is firmly behind green innovation as we look towards a post-pandemic recovery. Key to making that happen is collaboration between government, the public sector and other industry leaders to drive forward the debate.

“However, this research also suggests that, when it comes to specific transitions to alternative energy sources such as hydrogen, public awareness and understanding is very low. People want to know more about how a change to hydrogen will affect them, their bills and their existing household appliances, such as boilers.

“At Northern Gas Networks, we are listening to what our customers tell us about a transition to hydrogen, and we are already working in partnership on a number of demonstration projects exploring hydrogen as a safer, greener fuel of the future.

“These projects are essential for engaging local communities in climate action and innovation, and for educating the public so that they can have an informed view on hydrogen as a fuel for the future along with other green energy sources.

“For example, our HyDeploy pilot study in Winlaton, Gateshead will see 670 homes and businesses begin using blended gas containing 20 per cent hydrogen in the local network, supplied through the existing infrastructure. And just last month we announced that, in partnership with gas distribution network Cadent and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, we will build the first homes to demonstrate 100 per cent hydrogen-run appliances to the public.

“While we are driving forwards the green transition, we need government to play its part by providing investment and leadership. Ahead of the UK hosting the United Nations Climate Conference, COP26, later this year, the time is now for the Government to demonstrate the robust policy framework that is needed to achieve net zero carbon by 2050.”

The report outlines key recommendations including:

  • To prioritise green growth and new, skilled job creation in the regions hit hardest by the pandemic, many of which are in the North;
  • To ensure industry has a role in helping to identify pathways and offers opportunities for young people and those upskilling such as green apprenticeships;
  • To ensure communities are engaged and involved in local initiatives – improving public confidence in greener fuels such as hydrogen through demonstration and active public engagement;
  • That businesses driving forward the green agenda commit to bringing together diverse groups and provide social support to vulnerable members of society, and
  • To ensure Government supports sustainable action by making the necessary policy commitments, enabling us to meet the net zero target and demonstrate hydrogen leadership on a world-scale at COP26 later this year.

The full report is available here: A Climate for Change – a report from Teesside University

*All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc.  Total sample size of the GB national survey was 1,773 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th – 20th August 2020.  The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

**Total sample size of the ‘Northern England’ survey was 1,021 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th – 25th August 2020.  The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all adults in the bespoke ‘Northern England’ sample (aged 18+).

 

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Northern Gas Networks to appeal to Competition and Markets Authority on Ofgem’s Final Determination of its RIIO-GD2 Business Plan

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Following extensive analysis of Ofgem’s Final Determination on its RIIO2 Business plan, published in December 2020, the Board of Gas distributor Northern Gas Networks (NGN) has unanimously decided to appeal its outcome to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

The appeal will be launched on 3rd March 2021, with an outcome expected in Autumn 2021.

CEO Mark Horsley said:

“NGN is the frontier performing company in the gas distribution network industry and at the heart of NGN’s strategy is our desire to deliver efficiency gains for the benefit of our customers in a sustainable way.

“The final determination gives us clarity on what we need to deliver for our customers, and we’re in great shape as a business to continue doing this from April.

“Ofgem’s proposals do however present a very challenging environment for the RIIO-GD2 price control, and we consider that there are errors on specific aspects of the Determination that we are asking the CMA to adjudicate and conclude on.

“We will be following the formal regulatory process in order to seek a resolution and correct these errors.”

NGN’s grounds of appeal will centre on four key issues: Ofgem’s approach to calculating the Cost of Equity, the inclusion of an Outperformance Wedge, Ongoing Efficiency and the level of incentive offered to the Frontier company.

NGN is the gas distribution network for the North East, northern Cumbria and much of Yorkshire, transporting gas to 2.7 million homes and businesses across the region.

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Northern Gas Networks to carry out essential upgrade work to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply in Flemingate, Beverley

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Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Flemingate, Beverley.

The ageing main has undergone several recent emergency repairs, so has now been prioritised for urgent replacement with new, more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers.

Phase one of the work will start week starting Monday 1 March 2021 and is expected to be completed by Friday 12 March 2021. Further work is planned for the Minster area later in the year. This work has been planned in collaboration with East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Network Rail.

So that engineers can carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect the public, some traffic management measures will be put in place.

There will be a temporary road closure from 1 to 12 March between the railway crossing on Flemingate and the junction of Minster Yard South. Signs will be displayed for motorists and a full signed diversion put in place.  Residents will have access to their properties as normal.

Due to the current national lockdown, NGN is prioritising work in line with government guidance, carrying out safety-critical services including responding to gas emergencies, emergency repairs and maintenance as well as planned work to replace ageing metal gas mains which need to be carried out urgently.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being carried out in the street, following Government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible. There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe and ensure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

Engineers will observe safe distance working and wear PPE at all times.

Russell Kaye, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these critical works. However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the residents of Beverley.

“NGN is continuing to carry out its critical activities while following strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and observing health and safety guidance during the current coronavirus outbreak in England.

“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this essential scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

Customers can read more about our Covid Secure Promise here.

For further information about the work please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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Northern Gas Networks to carry out essential upgrade work to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply at Coast Road, Newcastle

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Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, will be starting critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Newcastle. Works will take place near the BP petrol station close to Battle Hill on Coast Road (A1058).

The ageing main has undergone several recent emergency repairs, so has now been prioritised for urgent replacement.

Traffic management arrangements, including lane closures in both directions, will be put in place on Friday 5 March from 8pm, ready for works starting on the next day, Saturday 6 March.

The work is expected to last for approximately three weeks. It has been planned in close collaboration with North Tyneside Council.

Due to the current national lockdown, NGN is prioritising work in line with government guidance, carrying out safety-critical services including responding to gas emergencies, emergency repairs and maintenance as well as planned work to replace ageing metal gas mains which need to be carried out urgently.

So that engineers can carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect the public, some traffic management measures will be put in place.

It will be necessary to close the inside lanes on both the eastbound and the westbound sides of Coast Road for the full duration of our works and traffic speed limits will be dropped to 30mph for the safety of our team and other road users.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and motorists are advised to allow extra travel time.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being carried out in the street, following Government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible. There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe and ensure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

Engineers will observe safe distance working and wear PPE at all times.

Richie Manuel, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these critical works. However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the residents of Newcastle.

“NGN is continuing to carry out its critical activities while following strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and observing health and safety guidance during the current coronavirus outbreak in England.

“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this essential scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

Customers can read more about our Covid Secure Promise here.

For further information about the work please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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Northern Gas Networks to carry out critical upgrade work to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply in Low Fell, Gateshead

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Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Low Fell, Gateshead.

The ageing metal pipework is now being replaced by new, more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers.

The work will begin on Thursday 25th February 2021 and will last for approximately five days. It will be carried out at the junctions of Kells Lane, Beaconsfield Road, Beaconsfield Avenue and Dryden Road. The project has been planned in collaboration with Gateshead Council.

Due to the current national lockdown, NGN is prioritising work in line with Government guidance, carrying out safety-critical services including responding to gas emergencies, emergency repairs and maintenance, as well as planned work to replace ageing metal gas mains which needs to be carried out urgently.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being carried out in the street, following Government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible. There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe and ensure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

So engineers can carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect the public, some traffic management measures will be put in place.

Due to the location of the gas main, we will need to close the junction of Beaconsfield Road and Beaconsfield Avenue for the duration of these works. There will be a diversion route in place while the junction is closed. All residents and businesses affected been received a letter regarding the works, and there are advance warning signs in the area to notify motorists beforehand.

Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual while the work is underway, although subject to lockdown restrictions.

 

Engineers will observe safe distance working and wear PPE at all times.

 

While the majority of the work will be carried out in the street, engineers may need to access customer properties to complete the project and ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas.

 

There are extra safety precautions in place for working inside: NGN engineers will wash their hands or use hand sanitiser thoroughly before entering a property and wear a face mask and gloves; they will maintain a two-metre distance and ask the householders to stay in another room while they work. Our engineers may also ask customers if they feel comfortable wearing a face mask themselves during a home visit.

 

Where customers are self-isolating, have symptoms or are at high clinical risk, engineers will wear full PPE when working indoors, including coveralls and eye protection.

Chris Taylor, Site Manager for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these critical works. However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the customers in Low Fell.

“NGN is continuing to carry out its critical activities while following strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and observing health and safety guidance during the current coronavirus outbreak in England.

“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this essential scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

Customers can read more about our Covid Secure Promise here.

For further information about the work please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.

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Communities projects across Yorkshire receive share of £100K fund to support them through the Covid-19 pandemic

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Northern Gas Networks and Northern Powergrid have together announced which community projects in Yorkshire will benefit from new funding from their joint annual Community Partnering Fund, delivered in partnership with Leeds Community Foundation.

The joint fund was set up to award grants to grassroots organisations that deliver pioneering and sustainable projects throughout Yorkshire. This latest round of grants totals more than £60k and has been made as part of a larger fund worth over £100k, which is distributed at two intervals each year.

This latest funding pot is the biggest yet, with 10 successful projects in Yorkshire awarded up to £10k each, enabling the groups to broaden their support for the local communities in which they work.

The Community Partnering Fund enables community groups to deliver schemes that tackle issues that are close to the hearts of Northern Powergrid and Northern Gas Networks, such as reducing fuel poverty, improving energy efficiency and safety know-how, and supporting projects that encourage more young people into science and technology subjects in schools and colleges, to help create a more diverse workforce as energy companies work to deliver a greener energy future for the region.

As well as providing a short-term funding boost, the aim is to find organisations which can become long-term partners, by working with groups who are embedded in their local communities.

Projects to receive funding range from a programme that aims to equip residents with the knowledge and confidence to prepare healthy, nutritious food on a budget; a group which will train a cohort of Energy Champions, to a project reducing social isolation through a shared allotment space, demonstrating the possibilities and savings that can be made when growing your own vegetables.

The groups that have received funding grants are as follows:

Bradford Study Support Network – £4,900.00
Based in Bradford city centre, Bradford Study Support Network is a voluntary organisation that was set up in 1994 to provide educational support and development. It was established to increase learning and skills, address barriers to learning and promote social inclusion within Bradford’s disadvantaged communities, for individuals across all ages and abilities. The Network also aims to increase young people’s interest in science, technology, engineering and maths subjects at schools and college, through raising aspirations and providing role models. Find out more at www.bssn.org.uk

Selby Big Local – £6,125.00
Selby Big Local was originally set up with funding from the National Lottery Community Fund to support projects that benefit residents of all ages and from all backgrounds. It aims to tackle social isolation, improve people’s health and wellbeing, and create new opportunities for change. The grant from the Community Partnering Fund is specifically to support Community Fridge, a project that aims to equip residents with the knowledge and confidence to prepare healthy, nutritious food on a budget, while training a cohort of Energy Champions who will share advice on energy efficiency. Find out more at www.selbybiglocal.org.uk

Wakefield Scouts – £3,141.00
Although scouting has been affected by Covid-19 restrictions, Wakefield Scouts are planning activities for when their groups can meet again. The grant from the Community Partnering Fund will enable them to buy equipment that will be used to teach scouts across Wakefield about science and technology. http://www.wakefieldscouts.org.uk

Affinity 2020 CIC, Rotherham – £8,920.00
Affinity 2020 CIC is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company based in Rotherham, which supports children and young adults up to the age of 25 who have experienced life in care, including care leavers. The grant from the Community Partnering Fund will be used to fund a project with local teachers, training them to become highly skilled in understanding science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related roles and providing STEM-related activities to encourage young people’s interest in these subjects. The funding will also support a ‘STEM for Looked After Children’ booklet to be produced and distributed nationally. Find out more on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/affinity2020/

That Friday Feeling, Leeds – £8,500.00
Gardening can be a great boost to both physical and mental health. That Friday Feeling works to reduce social isolation for people living in south Leeds through an allotment, demonstrating the possibilities for friendship, a shared hobby and savings that can be made when growing your own vegetables. This grant will enable the project to reach out to more people who could benefit from working on the allotment.

Growing Better CIC, Leeds – £4,887.00
Growing Better CIC is a social enterprise and ‘vertical urban farm’ in Leeds, dedicated to better mental health and wellbeing through urban farming activities. The Community Partnering Fund grant will enable Growing Better CIC to develop a set of projects aimed at primary school children, encouraging their interest in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects and based on the experiences and expertise of vertical urban farmers themselves. Find out more at https://growingbetter.co.uk/

Tangram Housing Co-operative, Leeds – £3,225.00
Tangram Housing Co-operative in Harehills, Leeds, is run by tenants, for tenants. The co-operative will use its Community Partnering Fund grant to provide hands-on educational sessions on how to carry out internal insulation works, as well as offering tenants information about saving on their fuel bills, how to protect their homes against Carbon Monoxide, and the free Priority Services Register, which gives vulnerable customers extra support if they lose their energy supply. Find out more at https://tangramhousing.co.uk

Ignite Imaginations, Sheffield – £4,300.00
Ignite Imaginations is a community arts organisation and charity based in Sheffield, which aims to connect with individuals and communities across the city through the arts. Through activities and workshops, it helps people to gain new skills and confidence. Ignite Imaginations will use the Community Partnering Fund grant to actively promote science, technology, engineering and maths subjects to disadvantaged young people in Sheffield. Find out more at https://www.igniteimaginations.org.uk 

Zero Carbon Yorkshire, Sheffield – £6,077.00
Zero Carbon Yorkshire is a not-for-profit organisation based in Sheffield that is developing a good carbon practice network. It supports individuals, groups and organisations in the region to reduce their carbon footprint. The aim is to bring together Yorkshire communities to co-produce a roadmap for a climate-smart, successful, sustainable and resilient county; making Yorkshire a leading light in the fight against climate change. The funding will be invested in a series of hands-on Zoom and workshop sessions designed for small groups around STEM-related projects, and the creation of a community energy network. Find out more at https://zerocarbonyorkshire.org

The Employers Forum for Sharrow, Heeley And Norfolk Park Ltd, Sheffield – £10,000.00
The employer-led Forum supports people into apprenticeships and training, and makes links with young people, communities, schools and colleges in Sheffield. Addressing the rising demand on its support services as a result of the pandemic, the Forum will use its Community Partnering Fund grant to address food and fuel poverty in the Sharrow, Heeley and Norfolk Park areas of Sheffield, particularly for vulnerable people primarily from minority ethnic communities.

Bryony Boyle, Co-ordinator at Selby Big Local, said: “We’re delighted to have received funding through Round 5 of the Community Partnering Fund.

“The Fund presents us with a really exciting opportunity to build upon our projects by developing a series of community cookery courses, and empowering our Community Fridge volunteers and ‘cooking buddies’ to be Energy Champions; helping the community to eat healthily on a budget and save money on energy costs.

“We’ll be working with the Yorkshire Energy Doctor and piloting a cookery course using slow cookers, which are more cost efficient than traditional cookers. We’re passionate about the power of food to bring people together and this project will play a vital role in improving community resilience in Selby, as we gradually emerge from the pandemic.”

Michelle Cummings, Social Responsibility Manager at Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, said: “Being a force for good in the communities we serve is more important than ever. In addition to our critical role powering everyday life for eight million people during the pandemic, we want to play our part in supporting organisations across the region who are reaching out into local communities to provide much needed and enduring support. By working in partnership with Northern Gas Networks, we can ensure our joint funding benefits more people and communities.  We look forward to seeing the positive results from these latest awards.”

Jill Walker, Social Strategy Project Manager at Northern Gas Networks, the gas distributor for the North of England, said: “At Northern Gas Networks, we’re committed to helping our most vulnerable communities across Yorkshire.  The Community Partnering Fund, delivered in partnership with Northern Powergrid, is all about providing enduring support to organisations at the heart of the communities that we serve. So we are very pleased to be able to announce this latest round of grants to some really fantastic grassroots organisations in Yorkshire, who will now go on to make a positive and practical difference to those living in their communities at a very challenging time.”

Kate Hainsworth, Chief Executive at Leeds Community Foundation, added: “Leeds Community Foundation is proud to continue to work in partnership with Northern Gas Networks and Northern Powergrid. We’ve distributed nearly £250k since 2018 and look forward to continuing to support the work of grassroots groups, who continue to face huge challenges as a result of COVID-19.”

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