Democratic Unionist Party Assembly Member for North Down, Gordon Dunne MLA, today met with representatives from Phoenix Energy to discuss the essential natural gas network reinforcement works programme which commenced earlier this week in Bangor.
The meeting took place on the Ballysallagh Road, Bangor, where phase 1 of the works programme is already underway on an off-road section. Work is planned to commence on the main Ballysallagh Road from early-May.
Phoenix Energy Director of Communications, Jonathan Martindale said, “Phoenix has been operating in the Bangor area for nearly 20 years and we currently serve around 50% of households in Bangor and its surrounding towns. As demand for natural gas in these areas continues to grow, we are undertaking essential reinforcement works to future proof the reliability and continuity of supply that customers in the Bangor and surrounding areas have enjoyed in recent years.
“Phoenix Energy has been working for the past number of months to engage relevant stakeholders in the Bangor area, including Ards & North Down Borough Council, political representatives and key business stakeholders to ensure a smooth and efficient programme of works and to keep disruption to a minimum. We are delighted to meet with Mr Dunne today and update on the progress of the construction project.”
Speaking after the meeting, Gordon Dunne MLA said, “As a local area representative, I am very pleased to meet with Phoenix Energy today to discuss key concerns around the works project and see first-hand how the programme will progress over the coming weeks.
“My purpose in meeting with Phoenix is to ensure that the programme is undertaken efficiently and safely and that the planned works have been properly considered to cause as little disruption to traffic and communities as possible.
“Following today’s discussion I am satisfied that, whilst an element of disruption is inevitable with any infrastructure project, this programme has been well considered and the appropriate engagement has been undertaken with key stakeholders in the area.
“I am delighted to hear that Phoenix has developed a programme that will mitigate disruption and ensure the continued flow of traffic in this busy area. I am particularly pleased that Phoenix has been able to accommodate an ‘off-road’ solution to the initial phase of construction, which significantly reduces the impact to both commuters and local properties.
“As construction moves on to the main Ballysallagh Road, Phoenix will be operating temporary traffic lights and utilising a manned signalling system during peak traffic periods to keep traffic moving on what is known to be a busy commuter road.
“I recognise the benefits that natural gas has brought to Bangor and the surrounding area and I am pleased to continue to work closely with Phoenix Energy as they undertake these essential works to continue to serve the local area.”
For real-time works information on the natural gas network reinforcement programme visit www.phoenixnaturalgas.com.