National Grid : starts work on dismantling Manchester gas holders

20 Mar 2019

National Grid is starting work to dismantle two unused gasholders and storage tanks on its Common Lane site in Partington.

The site will be cleared as part of National Grid's on-going nationwide gasholder dismantling programme. Gasholders are no longer required due to investments made to improve the national network, meaning gas can be stored in the pipe system or underground. Work is expected to be complete by the end of the year.

Erith, specialist contractors appointed by National Grid, will first remove and treat any water from the gasholders, before removing the sludge and any other debris from the base. The holders will then be dismantled.

When removing the sludge, an unpleasant smell, similar to diesel, can occur. This smell is not harmful to people who live in the surrounding community or the environment. National Grid will do everything they can to make sure it does not become an issue, including using odour suppressants. National Grid's gas safety guidance remains unchanged by the work. If people do think they can smell gas they should contact the freephone gas emergency number 0800 111 999. All reports will be investigated by gas engineers to establish if they are related to the gasholder dismantling work or are genuine gas escapes.

The site will remain securely fenced at all times with full CCTV coverage. The work will be strictly controlled to minimise any potential disturbance for people who live and work close by.

Chris Taylor, Land Regeneration Manager for National Grid, said: 'We will remove the gasholders as safely, quickly and efficiently as possible to minimise the impact on local people and the environment.

'We have written to people who live and work in the local community to explain what we will be doing. If anyone has any questions about the project they can contact our community relations team on 0800 8199 071.'