Our gas network upgrade project along the A267 is progressing well.

Two engineering teams are working simultaneously on separate phases to try and ensure we minimise disruption from this essential work to replace the existing metal gas main.

Team one has installed approximately 600m of new plastic pipe heading north along the A267, between Jessops and Greenhill Court. Here, we’re able to use a technique that involves inserting the new pipe inside the old metal gas main. They’ll continue northwards next week, installing a further 200m of pipe from Greenhill Court to Yew Tree Lane.

Our second team is working south from outside Jessops. Engineers here are using an open-cut trenching method to install a larger new gas pipe, and they’ve completed around 200m so far. Next week, team two are expected to excavate another 50m of trench and install the next section of pipe.

We’re aware larger vehicles have not been following the signed diversion route and using unsuitable local roads instead. Following discussions with the local authority and key stakeholders in the area, and to ensure everyone’s safety while we complete this essential work, we’ve extended the road closure to the A267’s junction with B2100 Wadhurst Road.

Our operative is stationed at the closure point directing through-traffic back to the official diversion and allowing access for residents and businesses within the closure only.

Unfortunately, some drivers have directed abusive or threatening behaviour towards the operative. We appreciate roadworks can be frustrating, but abuse of roadworkers is unacceptable and we ask all drivers to treat our colleagues with respect. CCTV recording is now in place, and any further incidents of abusive or threatening behaviour will be reported to the police.