Difficulties with gas mains replacement works on Ramsgate Road will mean a further three week closure on a stretch of the road from mid April.
SGN has been working in Ramsgate Road between the entrance of the QEQM Hospital and its junction with Salmestone Road since January 16 to to upgrade the network as part of a 30-year programme replacing old metal pipes with new plastic pipe.
The work had been estimated to finish by March 10 by SGN says engineering difficulties resulted in slower than expected progress and a mid-April end date was estimated.
Now the gas firm says a further lot of work will mean a three week closure both ways on Ramsgate Road between Salmestone Road and St Augustine’s Avenue from April 15, meaning works will go on into May.
An SGN update says: “Our engineers began work last year and returned in mid-January to complete the remaining two phases of this essential project to replace our old metal mains with new plastic pipe.
“We’ve been working in Ramsgate Road between the entrance of the QEQM Hospital and its junction with Salmestone Road. This work was estimated to take approximately eight weeks to complete, however engineering difficulties have resulted in us making slower than expected progress.
“Ramsgate Road has been closed to northbound motorists around our site, but we’ve struggled to navigate the available space as well as diverting around other utility’s pipes and cables.
“To access more of our pipe, we will need to excavate further out into Ramsgate Road.
“Following consultation with Kent County Council on Monday 20 March, we’ve agreed to carry out this work under a road closure of Ramsgate Road in both directions, between Salmestone Road and St Augustine’s Avenue, from Saturday 15 April for approximately three weeks. A signed diversion route will be in place.
“Until mid-April, the existing northbound closure of Ramsgate Road will remain in operation to enable our engineers to continue to monitor and maintain the affected poor condition pipes which need replacing. We’re continuing to work extended hours to ensure this project is completed as soon as possible.
“We had been due to start the final phase of our project close to the Star Lane Roundabout in mid-March. Following the delays, we will liaise with the local authority to replan this phase of work at a later date.
“We understand roadworks can be frustrating for residents and motorists. We’d like to thank the Margate community for your continued patience while we work to ensure everyone stays safe and warm.”
Current closures and diversions
A254 Ramsgate Road closed northbound only from the junction with QEQM Hospital access road to the junction of B2052 College Road, to the extent indication by signs and barriers on site.
The alternative route is via A254 Ramsgate Road, A254 Margate Road, A256 Westwood Road, A255 Dane Court Road, A255 St Peters Road, B2052 College Road and vice versa.
Nash Court Road closed at its junction with A254 Ramsgate Road, to the extent indication by signs and barriers on site.
The alternative route is via Nash Court Road, Nash Lane and vice versa.
A left hand turning restriction imposed on Salmestone Road, St Augustine’s Avenue and St Andrews Close, restricting traffic turning onto A254 Ramsgate Road.
A right hand turning restriction on QEQM Hospital access road and Perkins Avenue, restricting traffic turning onto A254 Ramsgate Road.
A no waiting restriction temporarily imposed on A256 Westwood Road from outside number 107 to the junction with Northwood Road.
