Further problems for Exeter commuters

There was more bad news today (Feb 28th) for Exeter commuters who have faced travel disruption around Topsham Road in recent days.

The busy route has been closed due to a burst water main caused by the freezing conditions.

But yesterday, engineers working to fix the problem damaged a gas pipe causing further problems.

Darryl Goddard, Wales & West Utilities Area Engineering Manager for South West England said: “We were alerted to reports of a gas leak yesterday evening in the Topsham Road area of Exeter and immediately sent an engineer to investigate.

"On arrival we discovered that the water company working in the area had damaged a gas pipe running beneath Topsham Road, causing it to leak. Our engineers are now working as safely and as quickly as they can to make a repair.

"As a precaution, Topsham Road, which was previously closed by the water company and due to reopen today (28 February) will need to remain closed in order to keep road users, pedestrians and our colleagues safe while we work. All diversion routes will be clearly signposted.

"This is a complex job, and we are unable to say how long our work will take. However, we do not anticipate that we will be able to reopen the road today. Our engineers are working round the clock, as safely and as quickly as they can to make a full repair and reopen the road. We will keep local people updated.

“No gas supplies to homes or businesses have been affected by this damage. We appreciate that keeping Topsham Road closed is not ideal, but it is important that we fix this leak now, in order to continue to provide a safe and reliable supply of gas to homes and businesses in the area."