Sgn Press Release Archive 2014

Transcript

SGN press releases 2014 (archive) Please note, these press releases have been archived and information which was accurate at time of publication may be out of date now. For our latest news, press releases and contact details, please visit sgn.co.uk. Contents December 2014 • 22/12/14 • 22/10/14 • 22/10/14 • 12/12/14 • 08/12/14 • 04/12/14 • 04/12/14 £64,000 gas upgrade in the pipeline for East Linton School visit fuels pupils’ interest in gas Kent village hall kitchen extension gets £1,000 boost from SGN SGN pitches in to help get The Bevy open on time ‘Game changing’ innovation wins SGN sought-after industry accolade £90,000 gas upgrade in the pipeline for Galashiels Success for SGN as we're recognised as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer November 2014 • • • • • • 21/11/14 21/11/14 16/11/14 11/11/14 07/11/14 07/11/14 SGN teams up with Royal Voluntary Service to keep older people well this winter Boost for young carers in Oban as SGN supports Winter Festival SGN shows its support for Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Cosham as part of £40,000 project SGN celebrates the achievements of its apprentices SGN launches 'Help to Heat' programme to enable fuel poor households to keep warm October 2014 • • • • • • • • • • 30/10/14 30/10/14 22/10/14 20/10/14 20/10/14 09/10/14 08/10/14 07/10/14 06/10/14 01/10/14 Gas company boss Tracey wins national Woman of Achievement award SGN helps Reading university students wake up to the dangers of CO poisoning A bright boost for children's road safety SGN leads the way with robotic gas pipe repairs in south London SGN volunteers help unearth Fife’s hidden treasures £26,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Lanark Volunteers refuse to be stumped by community gardening project SGN colleagues don kilts to tackle 1,174m charity climb Gas distribution company chiefs thank Canford Heath community SGN helps Reading university students wake up to the dangers of CO poisoning September 2014 • • • • • • • • • 30/09/14 30/09/14 25/09/14 26/09/14 15/09/14 15/09/14 15/09/14 04/09/14 03/09/14 Volunteers given ‘A’ for effort in Caversham school renovation project Cricket club is bowled over by cash boost £250,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Dumbarton SGN uses pedal power to raise vital funds for charity SGN supports Gas Safety Week 2014 SGN volunteers transform garden at servicemen’s retreat SGN volunteers help make a difference at Fareham RSPCA animal shelter Worthing charity benefits from depot’s success in community competition Horley team goes the extra mile for charity August 2014 • • • • • • • • 29/08/14 29/08/14 20/08/14 05/08/14 05/08/14 04/08/14 04/08/14 04/08/14 Horley company achieves success in prestigious Apprenticeship awards Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Southwark as part of £550,000 project SGN volunteers take the plunge for Worthing charity SGN team gets back to nature to help Deptford charity SGN team carries out essential repairs to support hospice Churchfields gets set for summer fun... with a little help from SGN SGN goes the whole hog to help animal rescue charity Sensory garden gets head start thanks to SGN’s ground force July 2014 • 25/07/14 SGN team repays community support with village hall facelift • • • • 22/07/14 10/07/14 09/07/14 02/07/14 £284,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for West Malling Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Ashford as part of £307,000 project Road closure and diversion planned for Oxshott as part of essential mains replacement work SGN directors swap suits for shovels to support charity partner Barnardo’s June 2014 • • • • • • 26/06/14 25/06/14 24/06/14 17/06/14 12/06/14 10/06/14 SGN employees donate extra time to local charity Gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Bridge of Weir as part of £26,000 project SGN employees play 'Star'-ring role at awards for frontline utility industry staff Sun shines on community team work as SGN clears the way in Oban Fairytale float carries CO safety message to Horley Carnival SGN cycling supremos tackle Tour de France stages in gas industry charity challenge May 2014 • • • • • 30/05/14 28/05/14 20/05/14 15/05/14 07/05/14 Dundee depot opened by Lord Provost as SGN builds on commitment to city School pupils learn about gas safety at annual Safetaysiders event Gas network investment in the pipeline as part of Southwark regeneration programme SGN scoops Customer Service honours at gas industry awards Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Copnor as part of £196,000 project April 2014 • • • • • • • • 29/04/14 25/04/14 11/04/14 07/04/14 04/04/14 02/04/14 01/04/14 01/04/14 SGN joins forces with the Dominic Rodgers Trust for ‘Dominic’s Day’ SGN's robot repairs are a winner in prestigious energy innovation competition Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) links up with Barnardo’s for charity partnership Kind hearted SGN employees rapidly raise £5K for Scottish charity SGN announces external Advisory Panel Gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Bearsden Road and Fulton Street £110,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Ayr Sutton gas network investment in the pipeline as part of £1.2m project March 2014 • • • • 28/03/14 25/03/14 07/03/14 05/03/14 Scotia Gas Networks supports national Fuel Poverty Awareness Day £470,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Helensburgh Two shortlistings for SGN robot repairs in UK’s prestigious innovation competition SGN announces plans for Scotland’s first commercial green gas project February 2014 • • • • • 26/02/14 14/02/14 12/02/14 05/02/14 05/02/14 Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Winton as part of £35,000 project Christchurch gas upgrade continues as part of £58,000 Stanpit project Scotia Gas Networks scoops £8.4 M in Ofgem scheme for innovative projects Charity calls for public health warnings on CO to reduce number of victims Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Reigate as part of £200,000 project January 2014 • • • • • • 29/01/14 22/01/14 22/01/14 22/01/14 10/01/14 09/01/14 Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Woodstock as part of £70,000 project Essential gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Cambuslang Gas network diversion project in the pipeline for the Gorbals Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Ewell as part of £180,000 project Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Lyme Regis as part of £75,000 project Southern Gas Networks restarts work to upgrade Bournemouth supply network £64,000 gas upgrade in the pipeline for East Linton 22 December 2014 From Monday, 5 January, SGN will be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in the Bridge Street area of East Linton to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. The existing metal gas mains and services in Bridge Street are coming to the end of their useful life and will be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe which has a minimum lifespan of around 80 years. Work will begin on Monday, 5 January and last approximately 12 weeks in total. For everyone’s safety, it will be necessary to close Bridge Street between Bank Road and The Square, for approximately four weeks starting from Monday, 5 January. A local diversion will be in place via the A199, A198 and B1407. Advance notice signs will be in place. As work progresses it may also be necessary to implement some parking restrictions in Bridge Street. At times during our works, temporary traffic lights may also need to be put in place to assist the flow of traffic. Our works have been planned in close collaboration with East Lothian Council and we will continue to work with the local authority and community throughout the course of our works. All businesses will be open as usual. Access for pedestrians will be maintained at all times. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and complete our works as quickly as possible. Our hours of working will be Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.15pm, along with weekend work as required. SGN Team Manager Euan McInnes said: “We will be replacing the existing metal gas mains with modern plastic polyethylene pipe which has a minimum lifespan of around 80 years and will ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for the local community for many years to come. “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating and we’re very sorry for inconvenience caused. We would like to thank everyone for their patience while we carry out our essential works. “Our work is being carried out in close collaboration with East Lothian Council and we will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption and complete our works as quickly as possible.” School visit fuels pupils’ interest in gas 22 December 2014 Pupils at a Chessington primary school got hands-on experience of what is involved in repairing and replacing a gas main this month, when a team from the Godstone depot of gas distribution company SGN dropped in to see them. The team’s visit to Ellingham Primary School provided the perfect opportunity to tell the pupils about a project in nearby Leatherhead Road they are carrying out to replace the existing metal gas mains with modern plastic pipes. The day kicked off with a presentation in morning assembly by team managers Joe Daniels and Paul Stringer about SGN, where gas comes from and how to be safe around it. After assembly, the team split the children into two groups. The first group was taken out into the car park to see SGN’s new mobile command unit; a vehicle with all the very latest technology on board that acts as the centre of operations for major loss of gas supply incidents. The second group was treated to a simulated excavation by one of the company’s repair teams, and a demonstration of how barriers and boards should be positioned around the site of an excavation to ensure the safety of the public. After equipping 60 of the older children with high visibility jackets, the team took them out to see an actual excavation site, where they were able to watch a real replacement team in action. SGN Team Manager Joe Daniels said: “Some of our replacement work has been taking place right next door to the children's school, so it’s important we talk to them about what we are doing, why we are doing it and the importance of being extra careful around the works. “Using one of our larger excavation sites as an example, we were able to teach them about how and why we replace gas mains, as well as site safety and the importance of wearing protective clothing. Even though they’re still quite young, they were fascinated by all the different equipment and asked some very intelligent questions.” Head teacher Sarah Creegan said she was extremely grateful to the team for delivering such an informative and wellpitched assembly, during which all the children (and the staff) learnt something new: “The pupils thoroughly enjoyed, and benefited from, their hands-on learning and the older children love the high visibility jackets, which they have worn to and from school ever since.” Kent village hall kitchen extension gets £1,000 boost from SGN 22 December 2014 Plans to extend and modernise the kitchen in New Ash Green Village Hall, Kent, have taken a step forward thanks to a donation from gas distribution company SGN. SGN has been working in the village, near Longfield, for the past few weeks, conducting trials to determine whether the gas mains and services for some properties need to be renewed. In recognition of the residents’ patience and cooperation during this work, the company has given the Village Association a donation of £1,000 towards its planned kitchen extension for the village hall. Craig French, Construction Manager at SGN’s West Kent depot in St Mary Cray, explained: “The Village Association has been extremely supportive; they’ve allowed us to use the village hall for meetings, provided design details for individual properties, and even made appointments for us to visit residents, which has helped us enormously in progressing with our surveys.” Pat Kirtley, from the New Ash Green Village Association, said she had been delighted to receive the donation from SGN: “Our existing kitchen is very old and badly in need of modernising, but in order to do the work that is needed we have to find 100% of the funding. Anything that helps towards this is very welcome, so SGN’s donation is very much appreciated.” SGN pitches in to help get The Bevy open on time 12 December 2014 Gas distribution company SGN is one of a number of local companies that has pitched in and ‘done its bit’ towards making sure the doors of The Bevy community pub opened on time today. A team from the company’s South Downs depot in Burgess Hill and one of its contractors, DJ Utilities, donated their time, equipment and materials to resurface the pub’s driveway this week so that its customers and local residents could come and go safely. The Bevendean (Bevy) pub was closed in 2010 after a string of violent incidents and anti-social behaviour. As the only pub serving the Moulsecoomb and Bevendean estates, which together house almost 18,000 residents, its closure left a big gap in the community. Determined not to let a handful of troublemakers take away their pub, a group of local residents got together and began a campaign to get The Bevy re-opened. Their vision was to create not just a pub, but a vibrant community facility that would be owned by local residents, with all the profits ploughed back into local projects. In addition to the bar, the newly-opened Bevy will have space for community groups and sports teams to meet, a cafe serving good quality, freshly-cooked food, with training places for local youngsters to learn catering, and dedicated meeting rooms for local societies. Going forward, its backers hope it will become sustainable with renewable energy, a vegetable garden and orchard. SGN Reinstatement Manager Bob Billinghurst said: “We’ve been carrying out essential mains replacement work in the local area for a number of months, so we’ve followed the Bevy’s progress with interest. The driveway outside the pub has been scarred by various utilities over the years and was a potential trip hazard, so when Mark Burgess at Brighton and Hove City Council asked whether we could make it safe, we were only too pleased to help. It’s been great to play a part, however small, in such a worthwhile project. “SGN runs a Community Action Programme (CAP) in which every employee in the company is given one day off each year to help out in their local community. Next summer, we are hoping to get a team together to turn the car park into a garden where children can play, and the local residents can sit and relax.” Going forward, SGN hopes to be able to work closely with the residents of Bevendean and Moulsecoombe to help them save money by giving them energy-saving advice, as well as providing information on the Priority Service Register for vulnerable people, the company’s Help to Heat scheme for anyone who is not connected to the gas mains network, and carbon monoxide awareness. Chris Pobjoy, who took over nine weeks ago as the new manager of the Bevy, said: “The support for the project has been fantastic. Without local businesses and companies like SGN pitching in to help the project get off the ground, it simply wouldn’t have happened.” ‘Game changing’ innovation wins SGN sought-after industry accolade 8 December 2014 Pioneering robotics technology for repairing gas mains has helped gas distribution company SGN win an award for its outstanding contribution to the street works industry at a prestigious ceremony held recently. SGN was among 10 winners unveiled at the National Joint Utilities Group (NJUG) awards ceremony held in the Houses of Parliament on 19 November, but whereas most of the other awards were voted on by the judges, SGN was singled out for a special accolade – its Outstanding Contribution to the Street Works Industry – by NJUG CEO Bob Gallienne. The focus of the company’s entry to the awards was CISBOT, a robot repair system developed by energy research and development firm ULC Pipeline Robotics, and adapted by SGN for use in the UK last year. The technology allows SGN to refurbish joints on some of its larger iron gas mains without the need to carry out multiple excavations in the road or take the gas main out of service. Many of these larger pipes are often in densely populated, traffic-sensitive locations, so CISBOT provides real potential for pipeline refurbishment with significantly less disruption to the public. The system also allows non-leaking joints to be remediated to extend their life and prevent future leakage and disruption. The equipment is potentially capable of remediating or repairing up to 330m from each single small excavation. Speaking at the NJUG Awards, Robert Goodwill MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, described CISBOT as a ‘game-changer’. This view was echoed by Mr Gallienne, who said: “Between 2010 and 2040, traffic on our roads is expected to increase by 43 per cent, so the challenge facing utilities, local authorities and their contractors will be to find new ways of minimising disruption to road users. “The only way the industry will meet this challenge will be through innovation and collaboration, and I believe SGN’s CISBOT system will deliver the step-change that is needed to do this.” With the help of £7.4million funding from Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition, SGN is now developing a more advanced robotics system which, when completed, will be used to assess stress in pipe walls, allow replacement and repair jobs to be prioritised, aid more accurate mapping to reduce excavations and help mitigate third party damage. Sam Wilson, SGN Innovation Project Manager, said: “It’s really encouraging to see the work SGN is doing to develop robotic solutions for common industry problems recognised across the wider utility forum. The benefits that robotics can bring to the gas industry and our customers are clear to see and will provide the step-change needed to reduce disruption on our highways. “SGN recognises these benefits and has invested in advancing the CISBOT technology and the use of robotics further. The recognition we have received for it today raises the profile of robotics techniques and supports our new £7.4million project that will take robotics to the next level.” The annual NJUG Awards have become a fixture in the utility street works calendar, and showcase examples of industry innovation, co-ordination and co-operation with the aim of driving up standards, improving customers’ utility supply and reducing disruption. This year saw prizes awarded to utilities, contractors and local authorities who provided case studies demonstrating their delivery of one or more of NJUG’s seven objectives for its Vision for Street Works: safety, high quality, sustainable methods and materials, minimise disruption, innovation, avoid damage to underground assets and keep the public fully informed. £90,000 gas upgrade in the pipeline for Galashiels 4 December 2014 From Monday, 5 January, SGN will be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in the Bank Street area of Galashiels to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. The existing metal gas mains and services in Bank Street will be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe which has a minimum lifespan of around 80 years. Work will begin on Monday, 5 January and last approximately 17 weeks in total. To minimise disruption as much as possible our works will be carried out in three phases. Phase one will take approximately three weeks. During this phase we will be working in Bank Street Brae between Bank Street and Gala Park. Traffic will be able to drive past our works. For everyone’s safety it will be necessary for a road closure to be put in place during phase two of our works, for approximately eight weeks. Bank Street will be closed between the junctions with Bank Street Brae and Sime Place. A local diversion will be in place via Albert Place, Braw Lads Brae, George Craig Bridge, Currie Road, Ladhope Vale and Bridge Place. Our works have been planned in close collaboration with Scottish Borders Council, who will be carrying out resurfacing works in Bank Street and High Street when we complete phase two. By working together we are minimising disruption for road users and residents in the future, carrying out our works in succession so that the road closure only needs to be put in place once. Phase three will see us working in Bank Street between the junctions with Bank Street Brae and St. John Street, for approximately six weeks. Traffic will be able to pass our works. All businesses will be open as usual. Access for pedestrians will be maintained at all times. Assistance will be given to maintain deliveries to businesses. We are mindful that we will be working in an extremely busy part of Galashiels and will do everything we can to complete our works as quickly as possible. Our hours of working will be Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.15pm, in phase one and phase three. During phase two we will be working seven days a week. Where possible we will use a modern ‘insertion’ technique. This involves using the existing gas main as a ‘sleeve’ to minimise the number of excavations required. We have a compensation scheme in place for small businesses which suffer genuine loss of trade due to our works. Details of this scheme and how to apply are on our website www.sgn.co.uk. During our works we will have a base in the vicinity and at allocated times will have a member of our Finance team available to help with questions about our compensation scheme. Bus diversion routes during the works are currently being finalised and will be publicised in the coming weeks. SGN Construction Manager Stuart Pender said: “Our work is being carried out in close collaboration with Scottish Borders Council and we will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption and complete our works as quickly as possible. “We will be replacing the existing metal gas mains with modern plastic polyethylene pipe which has a minimum lifespan of around 80 years and will ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for the local community. “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating and we’re very sorry for any inconvenience caused. We would like to thank everyone for their patience while we carry out our essential works.” Success for SGN as we're recognised as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer 4 December 2014 Gas distribution company SGN has been named as one of the country’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers by City & Guilds and the National Apprenticeship Service. The company’s name features in a list compiled annually by the two organisations to recognise excellence in businesses that employ apprentices. After a tough selection process, the most exceptional apprenticeship employers from all employer categories in the National Apprenticeship Awards went forward to feature in the list. The Top 100 employers were announced at the National Apprenticeship Awards on 13 November. SGN, the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, has recruited 300 apprentices and trainees since 2008 across a range of engineering disciplines; a further 54 young people joined the scheme in September. Commenting on the company’s entry in the Top 100 list, SGN’s Head of Training and Development, Neil Snell, said: “I am delighted that SGN has been recognised as being among the top 100 apprenticeship employers in the country; it is a reflection of the hard work we have put into developing our apprenticeship programme over the last six years. “One of our core values is to be an inclusive employer, creating a workforce that is proud to work for us, so we prefer to take on full-time employees. Our apprenticeship scheme is therefore integral to our recruitment policy; we want our apprentices to feel as though they belong with us from Day One. “Our experience of delivering apprenticeships has been nothing but positive. Three of our former apprentices have already progressed into management; one of whom is now running a team of twelve. Every apprentice we have trained is delivering results for the company – within just a few short years of joining us. “We have also found that it has brought other advantages for the company; whilst the apprentices themselves benefit from the support of their more experienced colleagues, the older staff are motivated by the young people’s enthusiasm and left with a greater sense of self-worth from having been able to pass on their own skills.” The Top 100 list was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg at the National Apprenticeship Awards, which took place during The Skills Show in Birmingham on 13th November. Congratulating SGN on being named as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer, he said: “The Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers have clearly demonstrated how apprenticeships have a major part to play in building great businesses. “I would encourage more businesses across England to follow these shining examples and find out how apprenticeships can help them build a skilled, motivated and highly qualified workforce. “For the Top 100 Apprentice Employers recognised in 2014, their great achievement clearly outlines why apprenticeships deliver the skills that young people and the economy need.” CEO and Director General of City & Guilds, Chris Jones, said: “It’s fantastic to celebrate the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers. They should be proud of their role in helping people gain the skills they need to be successful. After all, apprenticeships are a great way for people to earn as they learn, and they bring countless benefits to businesses.” SGN teams up with Royal Voluntary Service to keep older people well this winter Press release issued 21 November 2014 Gas distribution company SGN and older people’s charity Royal Voluntary Service have joined up to offer advice and free events to help older people stay safe and warm this winter. Figures revealed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) last year showed deaths due to cold weather have increased by a third, with the majority over the age of 75. The Winter Wellness campaign aims to encourage older people to stay both physically and emotionally well during winter. Royal Voluntary Service and SGN have created a free Winter Wellness leaflet to provide helpful information and advice about how to stay safe, well and in touch during the winter. A number of events will be held at Royal Voluntary Service community centres, with volunteers and professionals on hand to offer advice and to talk about emotional and practical support available. Pamela Goee, Head of Community at SGN, said “We’re supporting Royal Voluntary Service because we want to help improve the safety and well-being of older people. It is vital people are aware of gas safety, especially in winter. We’d recommend everyone has a carbon monoxide alarm. Knowing the simple warning signs to look out for such as ‘lazy’ yellow or orange flames instead of crisp blue ones or black marks on or around the appliance, could save your life. “If anyone does smell gas, think they have a gas leak, or is worried that fumes containing carbon monoxide are escaping from a gas appliance, they can call the National Gas Emergency Number free on 0800 111 999.” The charity Royal Voluntary Service says other top tips for staying well this winter are: keep torches, a batterypowered radio and spare batteries where they’re easy to find in the dark in case of power cuts; stock up on basics in case you can’t get out of your home for a couple of days and keep an eye on weather forecasts, particularly severe weather warnings from the Met Office. David McCullough, Chief Executive for Royal Voluntary Service, said: “As the colder weather sets in, older people need to start thinking about how they can keep well and warm in winter and preparation plays an important part in that. These Winter Wellness leaflets provide an opportunity for older people to find out how to stay well and safe in winter and find out more about what services are available to them.” Royal Voluntary Service helps older people across Great Britain with services such as Good Neighbours (companionship), Meals-on-Wheels and Books-on-Wheels that help alleviate loneliness. Royal Voluntary Service also provides practical support for older people who have been in hospital through its On Ward Befriending and Home from Hospital services. The Winter Wellness leaflet is available online or you can contact Royal Voluntary Service on 0845 608 0122 for a postal copy. http://www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/Uploads/Documents/Get%20Help/Get_ready_for_winter.pdf Boost for young carers in Oban as SGN supports Winter Festival Press release issued 21 November 2014 Young carers in Oban will receive a welcome boost from local gas distribution company SGN this month, as ticket proceeds from two Oban Winter Festival events are donated to local charity North Argyll Young Carers. SGN is sponsoring two events at the Oban Winter Festival, and all proceeds from ticket sales will go to the charity, supporting its vital work to make life a little easier for local young people, aged 8 to 18, who care for a relative at home. And we have invited Oban's young carers to come along, as our guests, to the Festival's Science and Circus Showcase in the Atlantis Centre on 29 November to enjoy some gravity defying fun, care of Circus Alba and Professor Brainstorm! We are sponsoring the Festival this year to say 'thank you' to the people of Oban for supporting our innovative research project in the town. We're visiting all Oban's gas customers over the next six months, gathering information on how their gas appliances work on different blends of natural gas. During our visits we are fixing any problems we find with gas appliances free of charge. If successful, our project will pave the way for more secure gas supplies and potentially cheaper gas bills across all of Great Britain. SGN project manager Jamie McAinsh said: "We are proud to be supporting the Oban Winter Festival this year. It's a great opportunity for us to support the local community and we're pleased to be on board. Our research project will only succeed if people open their doors to us when we visit them to do our testing - and it's good to have a way of thanking them for that support. SGN has a strong community programme and one of our themes this year is supporting young people, so we are very happy to be donating the proceeds of our events to the North Argyll Young Carers." Arlene Colewell, Young Carers’ Service Co-ordinator from North Argyll Young Carers added: "We are very pleased that SGN is supporting our work in this way. There are over 80 young people in North Argyll who help to care for a relative at home - many of them in Oban. We help by supporting them to balance their caring responsibilities with their right to enjoy their childhood. For example, we provide after school clubs, day trips and residential adventures to give them a much-needed break, and intensive individual support when they need it. And we are delighted that they'll have the chance to enjoy a day out at the Science and Circus Showcase on 29 November." SGN is supporting two events over the duration of the festival, including the Science and Circus Showcase on 29 November and a cookery demonstration on 22 November. Find out more about SGN's innovative project work in Oban, and how it might affect you, by visiting www.sgn.co.uk/oban. SGN shows its support for Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week Press release issued 16 November 2014 SGN, the UK's second largest gas distribution company, is showing its support for the ninth national Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week (Monday 17 to Sunday 23 November 2014) with a campaign of activity warning about the dangers of the 'silent killer'. The annual initiative is organised by Carbon Monoxide Awareness, a charity set up to provide support to those poisoned by CO and educate people about the dangers. CO is produced when gas or solid fuel appliances are not working properly or being used incorrectly. Every year thousands of people across the UK are diagnosed with CO poisoning. It is a highly poisonous gas – you can’t see it, taste it or smell it, but it can kill quickly with no warning. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness. CO awareness is a focus all-year round for SGN, which provides the gas emergency service in its areas of operation – Scotland and Southern England. In 2009, SGN became the first gas distribution company to equip all its emergency staff with Personal Atmosphere Monitors so when in customers' homes, First Call Operatives (FCOs) can potentially save lives and protect themselves by alerting them to the presence of CO. As an industry leader in CO safety, SGN also works hard to influence policy and strategy to help educate and inform the public on the dangers of CO, and has set up a Carbon Monoxide Action Group to help drive forward initiatives. SGN Head of Safety and Business Excellence Martin Manzi said: “Over the past year SGN has further improved CO literature which our FCOs leave with customers after they contact us via the National Gas Emergency Number. We have exhibited at outdoor leisure events to raise awareness of CO when camping or caravanning, and continued an enduring partnership with Girlguiding UK to actively engage Brownie Guides and Guides in raising awareness on the dangers of CO in the home. “The Action Group will also be focusing on building links with fire and rescue services and carrying out further research. We will continue to support Safe Taysiders in Fife, Hazard Alley in Milton Keynes and the Risk Factory in Edinburgh, which use street sets and mock-up houses to educate thousands of school children on gas safety and CO using interactive scenarios." SGN also recently collaborated with the National Union of Students (NUS) to carry out a survey of students’ gas safety and CO knowledge. For those students living in rented properties, 29 per cent of respondents were unsure if their landlord had arranged for their gas appliances to be checked in the past year while around a third of those who thought their appliances had been checked had not seen proof. This was followed up with talks at Reading and Strathclyde Universities. During the national campaign this week, SGN will further promote CO awareness by engaging all customers they visit during emergency call-outs. The week will also see the launch of SGN's partnership with the Royal Voluntary Service, as part of which it is sponsoring the charity's Winter Wellness Campaign. This includes emphasising the importance of CO alarms to older people. In addition, SGN is providing 25,000 CO alarms to vulnerable or at risk customers, working in partnership with the Blue Lamp Trust, which provides practical help to the elderly and vulnerable. Martin added: " Another focus for us during the national campaign will be on our own people, with everyone being asked to support the NoToCo campaign to make carbon monoxide alarms mandatory where carbon burning appliances are installed in English and Welsh homes. "The focus on this important subject will continue long after this week draws to a close, thanks to work by our awardwinning Innovation team to develop dual function detection devices, plus our plans to develop e-learning CO Awareness training for staff." For more information, see our CO safety pages on sgn.co.uk. Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Cosham as part of £40,000 project Press release issued 11 November 2014 SGN will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in the Cosham area of Portsmouth. The existing metal gas mains and services in Western Road and Southampton Road need to be upgraded to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. Work will begin on Friday, 14 November and last approximately three weeks. To allow room for the manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety, temporary eastbound lane closures will be in place around the works area in both roads. The lane closure in Southampton Road will be in place at its junction with Racecourse Lane at all times for the duration of the works. The lane will be implemented in Western Road from Southampton Road to opposite Playzone. This closure will be lifted between 6am and 9.30am and between 2.30pm and 6.30pm on weekdays to ease congestion. SGN General Manager Paul Rose said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Portsmouth City Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by road works; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, local residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” SGN celebrates the achievements of its apprentices Press release issued 7 November 2014 Three trainee gas engineers have got their careers with SGN off to a flying start after being recognised for their achievements in the company’s Apprentice of the Year awards. Ben Cross, Alex Dunn and Dominic Lowe were presented with their awards by SGN’s Director of Corporate Services, Gary Barnes, on Wednesday (5 November). As well as being named Best Depot Apprentice in the company’s First Call Operations team, Sussex depot apprentice Ben won the overall Apprentice of the Year award. He received an engraved glass trophy and a shield bearing his name will also be displayed in the trophy cabinet at SGN’s head office. Alex, who works at SGN’s Southampton depot, was named Best Electrical and Instrumentation (E&I) Apprentice. He was particularly commended for his contribution to the company’s pioneering Biomethane Terminal project at Portsdown Hill. Dominic, who joined SGN last autumn, works out of the company’s Poole depot in Branksome. He was named Best Depot Apprentice in the company’s Network Connections Operations team. In deciding who should win the company’s Best E&I Apprentice award, SGN’s Training team took into account the views of the apprentices’ mentors, their line managers, and those who oversee the apprenticeship programme. Local versions of press release issued to media. SGN launches 'Help to Heat' programme to enable fuel poor households to keep warm Press release issued 7 November 2014 Gas network company SGN is proud to be promoting its scheme to aid households in fuel poverty to get connected to the gas network, under a new banner of ‘Help To Heat’. The gas network extension scheme will build on the company’s previous assisted connections initiative, offering free or discounted gas connections to low income and vulnerable customers. It will also see SGN driving forward other fuel poverty initiatives in its areas of operation in Scotland and the south and south east of England. Research carried out by the Department of Energy and Climate Change has shown that fuel poverty affects one in four households in the UK. Many people regularly choose between heating and eating. Households living in non-gas homes are deepest in fuel poverty, spending an average of £468 more for heating their home than households connected to the mains gas network. A fifth of all fuel poverty households live in properties that are not heated with mains gas, compared to around 15% of the general population. Through the ‘Help to Heat’ scheme, thousands of low income and vulnerable households are connected to the gas supply network each year, helping to improve energy efficiency and enabling them to heat their homes at less cost. Householders within the vicinity of our networks in Scotland and southern England can qualify for financial support to connect to mains gas if they meet the scheme criteria. Details can be found at www.sgn.co.uk/helptoheat The ‘Help to Heat’ scheme forms a key part of our fuel poverty strategy and we are committed to delivering 20,000 connections to households in fuel poverty circumstances during the Ofgem regulation period, RIIO-GD1 (which covers the period 2013-21). A total of 11,000 of these connections will be in Scotland, with 9,000 in the south and south east of England. Gas is an efficient, economical and flexible fuel. Our scheme can help people take advantage of the benefits that a gas central heating system can bring. SGN Help to Heat Manager Robbie Stevenson said: “We’re delighted to launch our ‘Help to Heat’ programme this week. We’ve been working for many years already to provide assisted connections, however the new name for our scheme and the overall programme reflects the support and warmth we hope to bring to people currently living in fuel poverty, and we’ll now be building further upon the work we’ve done so far in this arena. “This launch heralds a new drive and focus in our work to aid the reduction of fuel poverty in our areas of operation in the UK. Through a series of exciting new initiatives we’ll be working extra hard with key stakeholders in our network areas to improve the living conditions of many.” Gas company boss Tracey wins national Woman of Achievement award Press release issued 30 October 2014 Tracey McIntyre, senior manager at gas distribution company SGN, has won the Construction and Engineering category at the 2014 Women in the City Woman of Achievement Awards. Head of Operations (Replacement) Tracey, who is based at the company’s St Mary Cray depot, was just one of seven eminent women who secured success and won their category. The highly competitive awards saw a wide variety of talented female executives from across the UK go head-to-head to compete for the Woman of Achievement Award. “Winning the Construction and Engineering category is a huge thrill and totally unexpected against such stiff competition”, said Tracey. “I’ve been so lucky to progress well in an industry that I love and means so much to me. The delivery and sustainability of our energy supplies is a challenging and really important for the future, and as a female pioneer in this sector, I’m in a great position to encourage others to take an active part too.” Tracey adds: “Yes, I’ve had to juggle long days and a very challenging job with the daily 105-mile commute from the Isle of Sheppey, a husband and two kids, but I’m very proud to have been the first female in my last five roles. From being an apprentice to now heading up a team of 900 people at SGN, my whole career has been in the gas industry. I’m living proof that women can excel in this male dominated area.” Tracey will now go on to contend for the overall 2014 Woman of Achievement Award to be announced on 28 November. The overall Woman of Achievement Award prize for 2014 includes a place on the prestigious Accelerated Development Program delivered by The University of Chicago Booth School of Business at its London campus. SGN helps Strathclyde university students wake-up to the dangers of CO poisoning Press release issued 30 October 2014 Students beginning their studies at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow are being warned by gas distribution company SGN against the potential dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in rented properties. The move comes after a survey commissioned by the company revealed a shocking lack of knowledge about the problem. Representatives of the company have been at the University this term to raise awareness of the issue, to give the students tips about gas safety in general and to hand out merchandise displaying the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because it is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas produced by incomplete burning of fossil fuels including gas, oil, wood, petrol and coal. The Department of Health statistics show that there are around 40 deaths every year caused by carbon monoxide and over 4,000 cases of carbon monoxide exposure. Students are at particular risk as they are often living in rented accommodation where the responsibility for making sure their gas appliances are safe lies with their landlord. To get a clearer picture of the extent of the problem, SGN collaborated with the National Union of Students to conduct an online survey among over 1,800 students – the first research of its kind in the UK by an energy company. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company. The survey found that a shocking 29% of students were unsure whether their landlord had arranged for their gas appliances to be checked. A further third, who thought their appliances had been checked, had not seen any proof of this. Jeremy Deveney, Glasgow depot General Manager, was at Strathclyde University with SGN Safety, Health and Environment Manager, Grant Taylor, to answer the students’ questions. Grant said: “We’ve spoken to around 200 students today and have found that generally their awareness about the dangers of CO poisoning has been good. “What has surprised a lot of people is that it’s not just gas appliances you need to be careful of. Carbon monoxide can also be produced from petrol generators, wood burners, barbecues, coal fires and other fossil fuelled appliances. A number of the CO fatalities that we are seeing today are where people have brought smouldering barbecues into enclosed areas such as tents.” Grant added: “The advice we’re giving to students is that their landlord has a legal responsibility for their safety. All gas appliances must be correctly maintained and a safety check carried out annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. By law, the landlord must give them a copy of the ‘Landlord’s Gas Safety Record’ (also known as the Landlord’s Gas Safety Certificate). “They can also keep themselves and their housemates safe by installing an audible carbon monoxide alarm that complies with BS EN 50291, which should be regularly tested in the same way as a smoke alarm. They should also learn to recognise the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can include headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness.” A bright boost for children's road safety Press release issued 22 October 2014 The London Road Safety Council (LRSC), London’s longest established road safety organisation, has teamed up with SGN, the UK's second largest gas distribution company, to give a boost to the safety of London’s schoolchildren this winter. With October being the peak month for road casualties in London due to the poor weather and the end of British Summertime, campaigners are keen to remind children of the need to take extra care on the roads and remember to wear something reflective as they travel to and from school in poor visibility. The LRSC and SGN have combined to give a helping hand by providing London’s road safety officers with 33,000 reflective safety shiners to award to schoolchildren in each of the 33 London boroughs. The lime-coloured triangular reflectors are printed with the iconic London skyline and will help children to be seen as they walk to and from school after the clocks change on 26 October. The Chairman of the LRSC, Councillor Val Clark said “Our members are road safety officers employed by local councils and they plan to give these reflectors away as rewards to those children who walk to school so that they can do so in increased safety.” SGN Chief Executive Officer John Morea added: “As we enter the most dangerous time of year on the roads we are delighted to be able to help so many children to be safer. Safety is at the heart of everything we do, whether it's the safety of our customers, the general public, our employees or contractors. Every day we come into contact with the public with our work, whether it's attending gas escapes or fixing and upgrading our pipes in the ground. Often this will involve the use of roadworks. It's very important to us that to support this, we engage with a number of partners across our networks to promote and improve the health and safety generally of our customers as well as the wider public." SGN is responsible for delivering gas safely, reliably and efficiently to 5.8 million customers in Southern England and Scotland. The LRSC exists to help its local authority members in the battle to reduce road casualties. The safety shiners will be distributed to children aged under 10 in all 33 London boroughs through the network of road safety officers who work closely with schools. SGN leads the way with robotic gas pipe repairs in south London Press release issued 20 October 2014 New robotics technology which enables repairs to leaking gas mains from the inside of the pipe is now being used in south London. The pioneering CISBOT system, developed by energy research and development firm ULC Pipeline Robotics, was adapted for use in the UK last year by SGN, the UK’s second largest gas distribution network. The aim of the technology is to enable SGN to refurbish joints on some of its larger iron gas mains without the need for multiple excavations in the road or taking the gas main out of service. Many of these larger pipes are often in densely populated, traffic-sensitive locations, so the use of CISBOT provides real potential for pipeline refurbishment with significantly less disruption to the public. CISBOT also provides the opportunity to remediate non-leaking joints to extend their life and prevent future leakage and disruption. The equipment is potentially capable of remediating or repairing up to 130 joints from each single small excavation. Following the first ever live test trial outside Woolwich Barracks in South London last November, plans for the future use of CISBOT have been developed. In September, SGN completed work to upgrade its network in Kennington Park Road, South London. During the project, 500 metres of gas pipe were refurbished with minimal disruption and in less than eight weeks. In addition 163 joints were remediated from only four small excavations. A second programme of work using CISBOT is currently taking place in Camberwell Church Street and Peckham Road, South London. SGN is refurbishing a 2-kilometre stretch of cast iron gas main. The work is spread over a sixmonth period, however as most of the work is carried out under the road we will only have to make eight excavations in the road during this time. The robot is capable of collapsing to a very small size, so it can be inserted into the gas main through a small hole drilled into the pipe. Once the robot is in the main it can be expanded and driven along the main to find the joints with its onboard camera before injecting the joint with a special sealant. The system is controlled from the rear of a single box truck, which is equipped with camera screens showing the robot’s activities. SGN Network Director Paul Denniff said: “We really want to transform the way we work in the street – we want to develop innovative solutions to repair pipes which are causing us issues now or, if they are okay, before they cause issues in the future, in a planned way rather than digging lots of emergency holes in the ground at short notice SGN Innovation and New Technology Manager Gus McIntosh said: “Embracing innovation is part of our vision to go above and beyond in the delivery of gas by leading the way in engineering. “Robotics technology reduces the needs for multiple excavations and trenches, reduces disruption on the highway and saves time and money, which is excellent news for our customers and other stakeholders.” SGN volunteers help unearth Fife’s hidden treasures Press release issued 20 October 2014 Fragments of Iron Age pottery, dating back to 700BC, were among the many and varied ancient artefacts found by a team of volunteers from gas distribution company SGN when they helped to excavate one of Fife’s most significant archaeological sites. Fifty employees from SGN’s Perth Customer Service Centre and the company’s Dunfermline depot were among 224 volunteers taking part in the Living Lomonds ‘Discover the Ancient Lomonds’, a major project to uncover and share the archaeological heritage of the area. The week-long dig took place at the remains of East Lomond Hillfort, a massive ancient fortification that is thought to date back to the Iron Age (700BC – AD500) and the Pictish period (AD500- AD1000). Whilst there, the team learned new skills such as how to excavate using miniature trowels to avoid damaging the objects, how to record and photograph their finds, as well as technical scaled planning and section drawing. They were working on behalf of the Living Lomonds Landscape Partnership that is delivering over forty project under five different themes, including the Discover the Ancient Lomonds project over the next two years, and had offered their help as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN Engagement Champion, David Cunningham, was among the volunteers who joined the dig last Thursday. He said: “None of us had done anything like it before, so we had to be shown how to excavate without damaging any of the artefacts - it was a very delicate operation. The whole day was really exciting because we never knew what we were going to find. “One of my colleagues found a tool that had been used in the Iron Age to separate an animal’s skin from its flesh, and before we left for the day we also started to uncover the walls of a house that had previously stood in that spot. It was a unique opportunity to be involved in unearthing some local history.” Archaeologist Oliver O’Grady said: “We aim to give the volunteers to our Living Lomonds Big Dig a real archaeological experience. The hard-working teams from SGN certainly took home that and more. “Despite some poor weather conditions, the network’s volunteers took part in making some excellent new finds, including late prehistoric pottery, ancient stone walls and a piece of a whetstone. We’d like to thank everyone for their hard work and friendly banter on-site.” £26,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Lanark Press release issued 9 October 2014 Gas distribution company SGN is investing £26,000 in an upgrade of its network at Hall Place in Lanark. The work will start on Saturday 11 October and take approximately four weeks to complete. The existing metal gas mains and services in Hall Place need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. During the first two weeks of the project, it will be necessary to temporarily close Hall Place to traffic for everyone’s safety. A signed diversion will be in place in both directions via Gallowhill Road, Hope Street, Bloomgate, High Street, St Leonard Street and Kildare Road. We will then reopen Hall Place and complete our works under temporary three-way traffic lights at the junction of Kildare Road with St Leonard Street. Throughout the duration of the works, access to homes, shops and businesses will be maintained at all times. Patrons and artists can continue to access Lanark Memorial Hall from Gallowhill Road as usual. As part of our planning process we have met with South Lanarkshire Council and we will continue to work with them and the local community throughout the course of our works. SGN Team Manager Geoff Storrie said: “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating and would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused while we carry out our essential works. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and complete our works as quickly as possible. “The new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, local residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Volunteers refuse to be stumped by community gardening project Press release issued 8 October 2014 A community project to help out in the gardens at the Orpheus Centre in Godstone proved a real test of strength for a team of volunteers from gas distribution company SGN. The Orpheus Centre provides supported housing in the form of self-contained flats, and a diverse curriculum of performing arts, independence, functional and life skills for over 40 young disabled adults every year. The nine-strong team, all from SGN’s Horley head office in Station Approach, offered their help to the charity as part of the company’s Community Action Programme, in which every employee gets a day off work each year to help in their local community. The idea of approaching Orpheus came from SGN Asset Records Assistant Gemma Cotton, who had helped at the Centre on another community day. She said: “I just had a great time when I was here last year, and the charity does such valuable work I wanted to be involved in whichever way I could. “The Centre staff were keen to expand their existing garden area to give residents more outdoor space, so they set us the task of clearing a large area that was covered by blanket weed and removing a few small trees so that the ground could be re-seeded.” Also to be removed was a large tree stump, which proved to be a real test of the team’s stamina. Gemma explained, “We tried everything; we dug a moat around it, rocked it backwards and forwards and used axes to break off the smaller roots, but it stubbornly refused to budge. Then, just when we thought it had us beaten, we managed to pull it free. The sense of achievement was enormous. “We had a really great time and when we looked back at the before and after photos we were amazed at how much we had achieved in one day.” Louise Hallett, Fundraising Officer from the Orpheus Centre, said: “We are really grateful to the SGN team for getting stuck into some really hard physical labour for us. The benefit is a completely new area for our students to enjoy. Thank you to all who came, rolled up their sleeves and dug in.” SGN colleagues don kilts to tackle 1,174m charity climb Press release issued 7 October 2014 Eleven colleagues from gas distribution company SGN have raised over £2,600 for Cancer Research UK by scaling two of the highest peaks in Scotland, Ben More and Stob Binnein – in their kilts. Peter Vigar, an administration assistant in SGN’s Provan depot, came up with the idea of climbing the twin mountains to mark his 65th birthday. He was joined for the expedition by ten of his colleagues from the company’s depots in Provan, Glasgow, Coatbridge and Dunfermline. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company. Although a seasoned hill walker, Peter still found the climb a challenge. He said: “Ben More translates as ‘big hill’ and they’re not kidding! We reached the summit via Ben More farm, which is a steep, straight-up path without the usual zigzags to offer some respite. “I always said Ben More would be the last Munro I would climb once I’d conquered all the others, but because of its height and steep incline I thought it would make a good challenge for this event. “I’d never climbed a Munro in a kilt before, but as it turned out to be one of the hottest days of the year, it was probably the most comfortable thing to be wearing. We took lots of water with us, but even then we had to resort to drinking out of the streams on the way back down.” Despite the fact that not every member of the team was an experienced climber, they all made it to the summit where Peter was presented with a bottle of whisky for his birthday by his manager, Robert Ferguson. Eight team members then went on to tackle Ben More’s sister Munro, Stob Binnein, while Peter and two of the less experienced hill walkers continued their descent down the mountain. The money raised from the climb, which came mostly from family, colleagues and local companies, was presented to Cancer Research UK - a cause close to Peter’s heart for a number of reasons: “I’m ‘bagging’ Munros on my own at the moment as my hill-walking partner Gordon is being treated for cancer. I have also lost a good friend and my father-in-law to cancer over the last few years.” He puts most of credit for the amount raised down to his colleague Linda Bommer. “She did such a fantastic job of promoting the event that she elevated the fundraising to a level I never envisaged would be possible. SGN also boosted our funds by donating £800 from its Into Action scheme, a fund set aside to support employees in their charitable activities.” Cancer Research UK spokeswoman in Scotland, Lisa Adams said: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to the staff at SGN for raising so much money for our life-saving work to help bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. "So many lives are touched by cancer and every hour around three people in Scotland are diagnosed with the disease. We're delighted SGN is united behind our common goal, to fund vital research which will give more families more tomorrows." Gas distribution company chiefs thank Canford Heath community Press release issued 6 October 2014 Chiefs at gas distribution company SGN have thanked Canford Heath residents after a burst water main affected gas supplies to 650 homes for nearly a week. Over 80,000 litres of water entered the local gas network following the incident in Culliford Crescent. SGN engineers worked tirelessly over the following days to repair the damage to their gas main and remove the water that had spread through its mains and service pipes. Glenn Norman, SGN Head of Operations (South), said: “This was a particularly difficult and challenging operation due the location of the burst water main, which was on a hill. The water flowed down through our pipes on either side of the hill over a 300-metre stretch. “Our engineers worked tirelessly to remove all this water and restore gas supplies as quickly as possible. We would like to thank the Canford Heath community once again for the support they have shown us during this difficult time.” Restoring gas supplies was an extremely complex operation with the company drafting in its engineers from across the south of England. While the repairs were carried out, engineers visited each affected property to turn off the gas supply. Additional engineers worked around the clock to remove the water from nine affected streets. Gas was restored to the area in phases as soon as the water was removed from each section of the network. Each affected property was revisited by a SGN engineer once again to reconnect the supply and carry out safety checks. The first homes were reconnected on Monday evening with the final properties restored by Saturday morning. SGN set up a customer centre at St Paul’s Church in Culliford Crescent for the duration of the incident. Members of the SGN team were on hand to answer questions from affected residents and provide free electric cooking and heating appliances. Glenn added: “It was a key part of the operation for us to have a customer centre in the heart of the community for the duration of the incident. We’d like to thank all the volunteers at St Paul’s Church for their help and support throughout the week.” All affected residents will be compensated for their time without gas. After the first 24 hours, householders will receive £30 for each 24-hour period they were without gas. This compensation will be paid automatically to customers by the energy supplier, regardless of supplier or meter type. SGN helps Reading university students wake up to the dangers of CO poisoning Press release issued 1 October 2014 Students beginning their studies at the University of Reading are being warned by SGN against the potential dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in rented properties. The move comes after a survey commissioned by the company revealed a shocking lack of knowledge about the problem. Representatives of the company were at the University’s Freshers’ Week on 24 and 25 September to raise awareness of the issue and to give the students tips about gas safety in general. Eleven people die every year in the UK, and over 1,000 are diagnosed with CO poisoning, which is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because it has no smell, taste or colour. Students are at particular risk as they are often living in rented accommodation where the responsibility for making sure their gas appliances are safe lies with their landlord. To get a clearer picture of the extent of the problem, SGN collaborated with the National Union of Students to conduct an online survey among over 1,800 students – the first research of its kind in the UK by an energy company. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company. The survey found that a shocking 29% of students were unsure whether their landlord had arranged for their gas appliances to be checked. A further third, who thought their appliances had been checked, had not seen any proof of this. Keith Houghton, a First Call Operative and safety representative from SGN’s Aldershot depot, was one of those at the University on hand to answer the students’ questions. He said: “Over the two days that we’ve been here I’ve had five freshers tell me that members of their family have been affected by CO poisoning, and a lady whose daughter died through inhaling the gas also has a stand here and is talking to the students. “What has surprised a lot of people is that it’s not just boilers you need to be careful of. Carbon monoxide can leak from woodburners, barbecues and gas hobs. The leak doesn’t even have to come from your own property – in a block of flats it can travel into the rooms above and below.” Colin Mullis, Safety, Health and Environment Manager, added: “The advice we’re giving the students this week is that their landlord has a legal responsibility for their safety. All gas appliances must be correctly maintained and a safety check carried out every 12 months. By law, the landlord must give them a copy of the ‘Landlord’s Gas Safety Record’ (also known as the Landlord’s Gas Safety Certificate). “They can also keep themselves and their housemates safe by installing an audible carbon monoxide alarm that complies with BS EN 50291, which should be regularly tested in the same way as a smoke alarm. They should also learn to recognise the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning – headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness.” Volunteers given ‘A’ for effort in Caversham school renovation project Press release issued 30 September 2014 Pupils at Caversham Park Primary School were greeted by freshly-painted rooms when they returned to school this term, thanks to a summer holiday renovation project by a team of volunteers from gas distribution company SGN. The school was keen to freshen up those areas of the school where the children work on a daily basis. Eleven employees from SGN’s Reading depot rose to the challenge and transformed the school’s music and cooking areas, as well as its Key Stage One library and corridor. They offered their support to the school as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company. Keith Hutt from Reading depot, whose two grandchildren are pupils at the school, said: “It was a great day – we all had a good laugh together – and it was very rewarding to see how something as simple as a lick of paint can make such a big difference.” Gail Ray, Headteacher at Caversham Park Primary School, said she was delighted with the team’s work: “The newlydecorated areas look fantastic – we’re really thrilled. In the current climate, when everyone is on a limited budget, jobs like this tend to get put off, so having the SGN team come in has been an absolute godsend.” Cricket club is bowled over by cash boost Press release issued 30 September 2014 The junior section of a cricket club near Maidstone looks set to become the proud owners of a new bowling machine next season, after receiving a cheque for £500 from Southern Gas Networks (SGN). Linton Park is one of the oldest cricket clubs in Kent, having been founded in 1787. More than 70 youngsters, aged between seven and 16, regularly play in its Colts section. Linton Park’s Under 11s coach, Andy Musgrave, who is also SGN’s Head of Network Strategy, put the club’s name forward as part of his company’s Into Action scheme, a fund set up to support employees in their charitable or community activities. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company. In his spare time Andy coaches the club’s Under 11s team. He said: “I started helping out there three years ago after my sons both joined. Last year the club put me through a course to get my UKCC Level 2 Coaching qualification. “I’d heard about SGN’s Into Action scheme via our company newspaper and website, so when I noticed that some of the club’s safety kit (pads, gloves and helmets) was looking a little the worse for wear, I thought I’d apply for a grant. “With the help of Into Action we’ll not only be able to replenish the team’s kit, but also invest in a new bowling machine which will ensure our batsmen are bowled a reliable ball every time. I am delighted that SGN has been able to support my involvement with the club.” Andy presented the cheque to David Todd, Chairman of Linton Park Cricket Club. David said: “This is a generous donation in support of the work that Andy and all the other coaches do to develop our colts.” £250,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Dumbarton Press release issued 25 September 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is investing £250,000 in an upgrade of the local gas network in the Bonhill Road area of Dumbarton. The project will take approximately six months with most of the work taking place in residential streets. Works will begin on Sunday 12 October when we will be working at the junction of Stirling Road (A82) with Garshake Road and Round Riding Road. This part of the project will take approximately three weeks. A new modern plastic polyethylene (PE) gas mains pipe, which has a minimum lifespan of around 80 years, will be laid to reinforce the gas network to meet increased demand, and ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area. Due to the location of the existing gas mains, our team will need to work across the junction and therefore, to minimise disruption to traffic as much as possible, our works will be carried out in four phases. For everyone’s safety, throughout phases one, two and three there will be no access into Round Riding Road from Stirling Road. Therefore, northbound traffic will not be able to turn left in to Round Riding Road and southbound traffic will not be able to turn right into Round Riding Road. During phase one we will be working in the northbound inside lane on Stirling Road at the junction with Round Riding Road and Garshake Road. The outside lane will be available for traffic to travel past our works. During phase two we will be working in both northbound and southbound outside lanes and right turn lanes on Stirling Road at the junction with Round Riding Road and Garshake Road. The inside lane will be available for traffic to travel past our works in both directions. During phase three we will be working in the southbound inside lane in Stirling Road at the junction with Round Riding Road and Garshake Road. The outside lane will be available for traffic to travel past our works. Round Riding Road will be reopened for phase four. Phase four will see us working in Garshake Road and at the entrance to Dumbarton Cemetery. Priority will be given to vehicles accessing Dumbarton Cemetery at all times throughout our works. All traffic lights and pedestrian crossings will operate as usual. As part of our planning process we have met with Scotland Transerv, West Dunbartonshire Council and Police Scotland. We will continue to work with them and the local community throughout the course of our works. We are mindful that this is a major route for traffic and will be working seven days a week and extended hours to complete our works as quickly as possible. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption but would advise that road users allow some extra time for their journeys. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager Graham Otto said: “We would like to apologise for inconvenience caused by our essential works. We appreciate that roadworks can be frustrating for road users and will do everything we can to minimise disruption. “We will be working seven days a week and extended hours to complete our works as quickly as possible.” SGN uses pedal power to raise vital funds for charity Press release issued 26 September 2014 More than 100 SGN employees have jumped on their bikes this week to cycle across England and Scotland in a bid to raise vital funds for the company’s charity partner, Barnardo’s. The cyclists, from as far afield as Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis to Portsmouth in the south, have travelled a total of 8,000 miles between the company’s depots – the same distance travelled by the Olympic torch in 2012. SGN is the second largest gas distribution network in the UK serving around 5.8 million homes in Scotland and the south and south-east of England. Colleagues in the south comp leted one ride a day for five days, taking in 11 depots and offices from Oxford to the company’s head office at Horley in Surrey. Eight of those taking part completed all five journeys, cycling a total of 325 miles each. Three rides, varying in length from 20 to 57 miles, took place in Scotland. These covered seven of the company’s Scottish depots, while 22 employees from the company’s SIUs (remote independent gas networks) in Stornoway, Wick, Thurso, Inverness, John O’Groats and Tongue completed four rides culminating on Friday with a 100-mile journey from Tongue to Inverness. In addition to money raised through sponsorship, each site held its own activities, including ice bucket challenges, a Name the Barnardo’s Bear competition, raffles, cake sales and other social events to welcome the riders home at the end of each day – all geared towards boosting funds even further. SGN Chief Executive Officer John Morea said he was very proud to see so many colleagues sign up to take part in the challenge. He explained: “We chose Barnardo’s as our first ever charity partner earlier this year because as well as allowing us to support the charity, it would also help us reach out to our most vulnerable customers. “The cycle challenge has already raised over £10,000, which will go a long way to changing the lives of the many thousands of children and young adults Barnardo’s helps on a daily basis.” SGN General Manager (Oxford) and keen cyclist, Graham Cox, was among 16 people who took part in the event’s 59mile ride from Oxford to Aldershot. Asked how he was feeling at the end of his journey, Graham said: “At the moment I feel fresh as a daisy, but ask me the same question on Friday after I’ve done the other 266 miles and you might get a different answer! “Today’s ride was a great success. There were no accidents or injuries and only one puncture. Everyone was still smiling at the end, which considering that some people had to get up at 3am to catch the minibus to Oxford, was quite a feat in itself. Dave and James from Oxford depot deserve a special mention for doing the whole 59-mile journey on a tandem.” SGN supports Gas Safety Week 2014 Press release issued 15 September 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN), the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, is proud to be supporting Gas Safety Week 2014 which takes place from 15-21 September. Scotia Gas Networks (SGN), the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, is proud to be supporting Gas Safety Week 2014 which takes place from 15-21 September. The annual campaign raises awareness of gas safety and the importance of taking care of your gas appliances. Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The initiative is co-ordinated by Gas Safe Register with support from the gas industry. This year, a number of events and activities are planned nationally to promote safety tips, research and other useful information to help keep people gas safe in their homes. Gas safety and CO awareness is a focus all-year round for SGN, which provides the gas emergency service in its areas of operation – Scotland and Southern England. Every year thousands of people across the UK are diagnosed with CO poisoning. It is a highly poisonous gas – you can’t see it, taste it or smell it, but it can kill quickly with no warning. SGN Head of Safety and Business Excellence Martin Manzi said: “As an industry leader in CO safety, SGN works hard to influence policy and strategy to help educate and inform the public on the dangers of CO, and has set up a Carbon Monoxide Action Group to help drive forward initiatives. "Over the last year SGN has further improved CO literature which our First Call Operatives leave with customers after they contact us via the National Gas Emergency Number. We have exhibited at outdoor leisure events to raise awareness of CO when camping or caravanning and continued an enduring partnership with Girlguiding UK to actively engage Brownie Guides and Guides in raising awareness on the dangers of CO in the home. “The action group will also be focusing on building links with fire and rescue services and carrying out further research.” SGN recently collaborated with the National Union of Students (NUS) to carry out a survey of students’ gas safety and CO knowledge. For those students living in rented properties, 29 per cent of respondents were unsure if their landlord had arranged for their gas appliances to be checked in the past year while around a third of those who thought their appliances had been checked had not seen proof. By law, landlords must keep gas appliances supplied to use in good condition. They should arrange a gas safety check every 12 months and provide a record of the check. SGN will be following up the survey with visits to Strathclyde University in Glasgow and the University of Reading over the coming weeks to promote gas safety and CO awareness. Martin added: “Gas Safety Week gives us the opportunity to put gas safety at the top of everyone’s priority list. “Making sure your gas appliances are safe to use could save your life. Alongside Gas Safe Register we want people to understand the real risks unsafe gas work poses and help people to stay gas safe. “If someone other than a Gas Safe registered engineer carries out gas work at your home, you could be risking the safety of your family and your property. You can make sure they are qualified for the work you need doing by checking their Gas Safe Register ID card. “We’d also urge everyone to get an audible carbon monoxide alarm, plus know the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning – headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness.” For more information on gas safety go to www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk. SGN volunteers transform garden at servicemen’s retreat Press release issued 15 September 2014 A team of volunteers from Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) in Dumfries has transformed the garden of a coastal retreat for wounded service personnel in memory of the son of one of its members. Southwest Scotland RnR is a charity that helps servicemen and women recover from their injuries by offering them accommodation in a retreat at Carsethorn on the shores of the Solway coast. The beachfront garden at the retreat was badly flooded in last winter’s gales, so the SGN volunteers stepped in to restore it and make sure it is protected from the sea. They offered their help as part of the company’s Community Action Programme (CAP), in which every employee is given a day off work every year to help in their local community. The team built fencing, put up decking and raised flowerbeds to help protect the garden from flooding. In another area, they cleared large areas of vegetation to allow the space to be turned into a memorial garden. The idea of devoting their community day to Southwest Scotland RnR came from one member of the team, SGN Senior Operative, Roddy Pool, whose son Joseph, 26, was tragically killed in action with The Royal Regiment of Scotland in Afghanistan in September 2010. Roddy said: “After the death of our son, my wife and I wanted to help a local charity to give us something positive to focus on. When we heard about Southwest Scotland RnR it sounded like the ideal choice. “We spent a great day at the retreat and the sun shone throughout. We usually work in groups of two and three, so getting together as one large group was a great team-building exercise. It was very satisfying to see the difference at the end of the day.” The community day followed a series of fundraising initiatives organised by Roddy and his wife, who together have raised over £8,000 for the charity. Roddy’s employer, SGN, has also boosted the couple’s fundraising by donating £500 from its Into Action scheme, a fund set aside to support employees in their charitable activities. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company. Jennefer Tobin, Founder and CEO of Southwest Scotland RnR, described the team as a shining example of how people can help. She said: “This is the third year they have helped at RnR, and each time they have achieved ever greater projects. One team member even came out of retirement to come along this year because he enjoys helping so much. “It has been a massive investment of their time and energy, and an enormous achievement on their part.” SGN volunteers help make a difference at Fareham RSPCA animal shelter Press release issued 15 September 2014 A team of animal-loving volunteers from Southern Gas Networks (SGN) have spent the day at the RSPCA’s Solent Branch Stubbington Ark animal shelter in Hampshire, helping out with essential maintenance work and caring for the animals. The Fareham facility provides shelter for all kinds of animals - domestic, wildlife, farm stock and exotic - and there are usually more than 500 animals on site at any one time. The 14-strong team, all from SGN’s Customer Service department in Walton Park, Portsmouth, offered their help as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to make a difference in their local community. They spent two days at the shelter, carrying out a variety of chores including rubbing down and repairing doors in the cattery, painting external fences and looking after the animals. The idea of helping the Stubbington Ark came from Ann Henderson, Customer Services Team Manager, a former volunteer at the shelter. She said: “It was a great day and knowing we’d done something to help the animals was very satisfying. “The highlight of the day for me was after we’d finished working we got the chance to go in the pens and play with the kittens, or walk one of the dogs. I was very smitten with the one I walked. If I didn’t already have two dogs, he’d have been coming home with me!” One member of the team, Kim Potter, has now signed up to become a regular volunteer at the shelter, while another colleague, Marie-Eve Noel, is considering doing the same. Kim explained: “Stubbington Ark does such a wonderful job and, being an animal lover myself, I was keen to do anything I could to help. I’m going for my first visit with my husband in a couple of weeks’ time and we’re going to take lots of warm blankets and food for the animals.” Vanessa Eden, Head of Fundraising at RSPCA Solent Branch, said: We were all extremely grateful at the charity for having such a great team of people from SGN who were willing to muck in and deal with anything that was thrown at them over the two days. It is an added bonus that, as a result of the community days, we’ve gained a couple of new volunteer applications.” Worthing charity benefits from depot’s success in community competition Press release issued 04 September 2014 A Worthing charity is to get a much-needed boost of funds after being named by Southern Gas Networks (SGN) as the recipient of a cheque for £500 from the winning team in the company’s new community action competition. The Queen Alexandra Hospital Home will receive the cheque from the company’s South Downs depot in Burgess Hill, after volunteers from the depot came top in its Community Action Programme (CAP) of the Month competition for their work with the charity. Twenty employees spent the day at the Hospital Home this summer, where they carried out a variety of different tasks. To show their support for the charity, five members of the team also joined 70 other people completing a skydive marking its 95th anniversary and commemorating the centenary of the First World War. Pamela Goee, Head of Community for SGN, said: “We chose the South Downs CAP project as it involved everyone at the depot in many different ways; fundraising for the hospital, spending time with patients, working in the grounds and providing ongoing help and support. “The staff are very passionate about this cause and for them it was not a one-off community day, but the beginning of a long-term relationship.” Under SGN’s CAP Programme, every employee is given a day off each year to help in their local community. CAP of the Month is a new initiative in which, once a year, all the teams that have carried out a CAP project in a specific month have the chance to win a trophy and a cheque to the value of £500 for the charity of their choice. SGN is the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, covering Southern England and Scotland. The South Downs team was presented with a trophy by SGN’s Head of Operations (Replacement), Tracey McIntyre on 14 August. Team Manager, Patrick Hyndman, said: “Moving to a new location as a new team last year was a big challenge and being able to get everyone involved in the CAP project has really helped with team-building. We all thoroughly enjoyed the experience; it was very rewarding and took us outside our comfort zone. “I never expected that we would win CAP month, but I am so pleased that the team has been recognised for their efforts. We’ve formed a great relationship with the QAHH that we hope will only grow over the coming months. And being able to pass on our £500 winnings to them is just the icing on the cake.” Horley team goes the extra mile for charity Press release issued 03 September 2014 A team of 38 employees from the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, Southern Gas Networks (SGN), have dusted off their walking boots and got ‘on their bikes’ to raise much-needed funds for sufferers of Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. The group biked and hiked the 38-mile Downs Link, which follows the route of a disused railway line starting from the North Downs in Guildford through to Shoreham in Sussex. Ten group members, all from SGN’s head office in Horley, opted to tackle the route using pedal power; a further 21 stepped up to the challenge and hiked the 17 miles from Southwater. Their remaining seven colleagues played an invaluable role as the cycle support team and also drove the hikers to and from their destinations. SGN Connections Support Manager Kristina Brown, who was responsible for rallying the troops together, explained what motivated her to help the charity: “Two close members of my family have ended up seriously ill in hospital as a result of Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Luckily they came out of it safe and well, but the experience made me want to highlight these debilitating conditions and raise money towards finding a cure. “Last year we did the Three Peaks Challenge and we had such an amazing time and felt such a sense of achievement that it encouraged us to organise another event this year. We thought the bike and hike would give people of all abilities the chance to take part. “Despite the fact that it didn’t stop raining for the whole day, we all had a great time, and the scenery along the route was breathtaking - as was the sewage treatment works at Aylesford!” Suzanne Roberts, who also helped organise the event, said: “It was a pretty eventful day – we had to contend with a herd of very frisky cows, four punctures, and a tyre that exploded quite spectacularly when we tried to re-inflate it. In addition, one of the cyclists ended up going 12 miles in the wrong direction after a refreshment break. It’s a good job he’s a keen cyclist!” In total the team raised almost £2,500 – more than double their original £1,000 target. Their sterling efforts were also boosted by an extra £500 from SGN’s Into Action scheme, a fund set aside to support employees in their charitable activities. All the money raised will go to Crohn's and Colitis UK, a charity that aims to improve the lives everyone affected by Crohn’s or Colitis through information, support, campaigning for improved healthcare and funding research. Eric Grounds, Fundraising Director for Crohn’s and Colitis UK said: “I am always humbled by the energy and commitment of those who raise funds for charities by undertaking challenging activity. Let me pay tribute to the Southern Gas Networks team for raising more than two and a half times their original target and for going much further than the extra mile.” Horley company achieves success in prestigious Apprenticeship awards Press release issued 29 August 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN), the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, has beaten off competition from hundreds of other entrants to be shortlisted for the South Central final of the National Apprenticeship Awards 2014. The Awards, now in their eleventh year, recognise the achievements of the country’s most outstanding apprentices and employers that offer Apprenticeships. SGN, whose head office is based in Horley, Surrey, was shortlisted for the Large Employer of the Year category, which celebrates employers who can showcase their commitment, contribution and the success that Apprenticeships have brought to their organisation. Since launching its Apprenticeship Programme in 2008, SGN has recruited 130 apprentices for its nine depots in the South of England and a further 56 in Scotland. Another 54 will join the company this Autumn. SGN invests over £100,000 in each apprentice during their training and that investment has been rewarded by the fact that the programme has a 97% retention rate. Neil Snell, SGN’s Head of Training and Development, said: “I am delighted that we have been shortlisted for the South Central final of these awards. It is a reflection of the hard work that we have put into developing our Apprenticeship Programme over the last six years. “Our experience of delivering Apprenticeships has been nothing but positive. Three of our former apprentices have now progressed into management, with one 21-year-old now running a team of twelve. Every apprentice we have trained is delivering results for the company - within just a few short years of joining us. “We have found that it has also brought other, less tangible advantages for the company; whilst the apprentices themselves benefit from the support of their more experienced colleagues, the older staff are motivated by the youngsters’ enthusiasm and left with a greater sense of self-worth from having been able to pass on their own skills.” Sue Husband, Executive Director Apprenticeships and Delivery at the Skills Funding Agency said: “The National Apprenticeship Awards recognise the best of the best and are an excellent opportunity for individuals and employers to gain the credit they richly deserve for investing in their own futures. I am delighted that SGN has been shortlisted, and would like to congratulate them on this success.” The regional award winners will be announced at a ceremony organised by the National Apprenticeship Services held at The Great Hall, Winchester on Thursday 11 September. The national award winners will be revealed during a ceremony at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham on the 13 November 2014. Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Southwark as part of £550,000 project Press release issued 29 August 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network near Borough Market. The existing metal gas mains and services in Winchester Walk, Cathedral Street and Montague Close need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 1 September and last approximately 14 weeks. The project will be carried out in three phases starting in Winchester Walk and progressing through Cathedral Street to Montague Close. To allow room for the manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety, it is necessary to temporarily close sections of these roads around the work areas. Only one road closure will be in place at a time and signed diversion routes will be in place for motorists. SGN Construction Manager Craig French said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with the London Borough of Southwark, Transport for London, Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral. We will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption and we will ensure pedestrian access to Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral is maintained at all times. More information about this project can be found in our customer information leaflet. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, local residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” SGN volunteers take the plunge for Worthing charity Press release issued 20 August 2014 Five employees from Southern Gas Networks (SGN) have proved that when it comes to helping out their community the sky’s the limit. They were among 70 people to complete a skydive marking the 95th anniversary of the Queen Alexandra Hospital Home (QAHH) in Worthing, and commemorating the centenary of the First World War. The group volunteered to take the plunge after visiting the Hospital Home with 15 of their colleagues as part of the company’s Community Action Programme (CAP), in which every employee is given a day off work to help make a difference in their community. The 20-strong team, all from SGN’s South Downs depot in Burgess Hill, spent the day at the home, carrying out a variety of different tasks, including gardening and weeding around the grounds, painting a fence in preparation for a royal visit and cleaning the residents’ coach both inside and out. Some of the volunteers spent the morning playing bingo with residents, for which they also provided the prizes, including a hamper, board games and some toiletries. The idea of asking the charity whether they needed any help came from Alan Thompson, one of the volunteers. He said: “We were looking for a local project and my wife suggested the Queen Alexandra. She works with some elderly ex-servicemen and women who are treated there and knows at first-hand the sterling work they do. “As well as being a very enjoyable day and an opportunity to get to know colleagues better in an informal environment, it was also a very humbling experience. Despite everything they have been through, the residents were always happy and smiling, and were clearly so grateful for the little help we were giving them.” For Team Manager, Patrick Hyndman, taking part in the skydive was the chance of a lifetime. He said: “The Hospital Home was aiming to beat the world record for the number of people doing a skydive in three days, so when they asked whether we would join in, we couldn’t say no. “I’d never done anything like it before, but I’d definitely recommend it. When we met for breakfast beforehand I was very nervous, but once we were up there I just got on with it. The peaceful feeling of floating back down to the ground after your parachute opens was amazing.” Event organiser, Tanya Sharp, said she was thrilled with the event’s success. “The skydive raised over £40,000 in total, which is enough to pay for QAHH to run its physiotherapy service for four months. This is a fantastic result which I hope has also raised awareness of the work we do.” SGN team gets back to nature to help Deptford charity Press release issued 05 August 2014 A team of 12 from gas distribution company Southern Gas Networks (SGN) got back to nature recently when they spent the day helping out at the Creekside Discovery Centre in Deptford, South London. As a tidal tributary of the Thames, Deptford Creek is home to hundreds of fresh and saltwater plants and animals. The discovery centre is built on the banks of the creek, offering exciting opportunities for children and other visitors to explore the various flora and fauna living there. To help prepare for the opening of a new discovery area for the centre aimed at the under eights, the team, from SGN’s depot in St Mary Cray, spent the day tracing and cutting out giant wooden jigsaw puzzle pieces of invertebrates. They also helped with habitat management in the Sue Godfrey Nature Park, which is managed by the education trust on behalf of Lewisham Council, cutting back large areas of grass and bushes to encourage particular species of wildlife to thrive. Two employees from R&B Utilities, one of SGN’s contractors, also came along to help, showing their support by supplying the power tools used by the group free of charge. The teams offered their help as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP), in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN, the UK’s second largest gas distribution company, has been a keen supporter of the Creekside Discovery Centre for some time; last year they helped by painting classrooms, building benches, cleaning up the creek and ‘sweeping’ liquid mud off the beach to clear spaces for children’s activities. SGN Resource Manager, Grahame Moss, said: “We had a fantastic time, and although we were absolutely shattered by the end of it we really felt as though we had achieved a lot to help the Centre.” Bettina Kabutz, the Education Centre Coordinator, said: “As a small charity with limited staff, having skilled voluntary help vastly extends our capacity and ensures that important tasks that might otherwise be put off, get completed. “This visit by SGN was particularly valuable because the team leaders really listened to our needs. They arranged a pre-visit to understand what we were asking them to do and turned up on the day equipped with exactly the right tools for the job.” SGN team carries out essential repairs to support hospice Press release issued 05 August 2014 A team of 16 staff from gas distribution company Southern Gas Networks (SGN) has spent a day carrying out essential maintenance work at Princess Alice Hospice in Esher, after seeing at first hand the valuable work carried out by the charity. The group from SGN’s Surrey depot in Epsom spent the day cleaning guttering, lights and signs outside the hospice building, re-erecting a fence that had fallen down, fitting a new gate around a storage area, and removing the old water tank bunds, steel pipe work and RSJs from the building’s loft to create a new office space. They also fitted stop ramps in the car park. They were assisted by one of SGN’s mains replacement contractors, Cappagh Skip Hire, who supplied a team and a skip. Gap Hire also supplied the scissor lift that was needed to reach the guttering and lights free of charge. The SGN team offered their help as part of the company’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN is the second largest gas distribution company in the UK. Engineering Manager Colin Groombridge explained: “The idea of helping out came from my colleague Phil McDonagh. It all stemmed from an incident last winter, when the hospice temporarily lost its central heating after water got into the gas main. “Phil and his team worked through the night to restore the hospice’s gas supply, keeping in close contact with Caroline Pooley, Deputy Health, Safety and Facilities Manager of the hospice, to ensure the safety and comfort of the residents. And after having the opportunity to see the work of the hospice at first hand, Phil asked whether it would be possible for us to help out there for our Community Action Project. “It was a great day. We started at 7.30 in the morning and worked through to the evening, but we really felt as though we had achieved a great deal. It was also very rewarding to know that we were offering some practical help to the hospice and its patients.” Princess Alice Hospice offers palliative and end of life care to adult patients and support to their families and friends across a large part of Surrey, South West London and Middlesex. Most patients are cared for in their own homes by the Hospice’s team of specialist community nurses. Caroline Pooley said: “We are enormously grateful to the team for all their hard work and the invaluable support they gave us. In the last year we cared for almost 3,000 patients, 24 per cent of whom had a non-cancer diagnosis. It costs over £8 million a year for us to do this, so help from companies like SGN, which allows us to channel valuable funds into care, rather than maintenance, is crucial.” Churchfields gets set for summer fun... with a little help from SGN Press release issued 04 August 2014 A green-fingered team from the London West depot of gas distribution company Southern Gas Networks (SGN) in Godstone has helped spruce up Churchfields Recreation Ground in Chessington in preparation for its busiest time of the year – the summer holidays. Thirty employees from the depot joined forces to tidy up the park entrances, paint the children’s swings and other play equipment, and lay a new 400m pathway. Two of SGN’s contractors, Aglish Construction and Essex Utilities, also joined the team on the day, providing the specialist skills and equipment needed to repair potholes and level out the car park. The team offered their help as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN is the second largest gas distribution company in the UK. Churchfields Recreation Ground plays an essential role in getting keeping children and families active and outdoors. The 22.5 acre site contains a range of amenities, including a popular children’s playground, a multi-use games area for year-round football and basketball, senior and mini league football pitches, tennis courts, changing rooms and a bowls club. Team Manager, Mike Dongworth, explained: “We have a close working relationship with the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, so my colleague Joe Daniels and I asked the Council whether they could suggest a community project that we could lend some help to – they suggested Churchfields. “It was a very fulfilling couple of days and we were left with a real sense of achievement at the end. It was great to give something positive back to our community.” Kevin Merchant, a street works inspector from The Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames, said: “The two days chosen to do the work were extremely hot and I thought the effort undertaken was brilliant.” Robert Waite, Green Spaces Officer from Churchfields, added: “The council are always looking to work with volunteer groups, and the skills and access to materials offered by SGN allowed a fantastic improvement to the park to be made." SGN goes the whole hog to help animal rescue charity Press release issued 04 August 2014 Plans to build a children’s educational play area at Foal Farm Animal Rescue Centre have moved a step closer thanks to a hard-working team from the Horley office of gas distribution company Southern Gas Networks (SGN) and one of its contractors. The 14-strong team, from nine different areas of the company, spent the day at the animal rescue centre in Biggin Hill, demolishing two disused pig sties, clearing weeds from the pigs’ existing field, cutting back overgrown hedges, removing trees, and repairing and painting fences. The idea of helping Foal Farm came from Network Planning Assistant Barrie Gillam and his wife, both of whom work at SGN’s Horley office in Surrey. Dawn said: “The rescue centre plans to use the area to build a children’s educational play area. They have yet to secure the funds they need, but until then the work we carried out will allow them to use the area more effectively.” Jason Helas from JDT, one of SGN’s mains replacement contractors, offered to supply a mini digger and gave up his own time to help with the project. He also returned the next day with a team from his own company to remove rubble, level the area with topsoil and spread grass seed. Barrie said: “We knew that the digger would be an essential piece of kit, but just how essential only became apparent when we discovered that the sties had been built using concrete blocks, and that those blocks had also been in-filled with concrete.” The two teams offered their help as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. Deb Taylor, Foal Farm’s Centre Manager, thanked the people involved, saying: “I was overwhelmed by the dedication and hard work that went into clearing and tidying this area for us. As it is at the entrance to the farm it has made a huge difference to how the centre looks when people first arrive. To achieve so much in such a short space of time was incredible.” Sensory garden gets head start thanks to SGN’s ground force Press release issued 04 August 2014 A garden project designed to make life easier for a disabled little boy in Broadstairs has been given a head start, thanks to five colleagues from the East Kent depot of Southern Gas Networks (SGN). Two-year-old Archie Page was born with a severe form of cerebral palsy and epilepsy. He is unable to sit, crawl, stand or eat and is on medication to control his epileptic seizures. With the help of family, friends and local businesses, Archie’s parents have been raising funds for him to have a sensory garden at their home. The garden would allow him to get outside more in a safe environment. Lee Castle from SGN’s East Kent depot at Ashford was so moved when he heard about Archie’s story that he got in touch with his mum Debbie to see how he could help. Along with four colleagues, Paul Goldwin, Brad Barnett, Jason Castle and Matt Chapman, Lee spent two days at Archie’s house, flattening and clearing rubble, waste, weeds and trees from the garden. The group then levelled off the garden after digging up and removing an old patio area. They also got in touch with a local waste management company, Brazil Brothers, who showed their support by clearing away the unwanted waste free of charge. Lee explained: “The family had been quoted £2,000 to clear the garden, so the money saved can be used to help towards the expensive specialist equipment they need.” The team offered their help to the family as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. They also donated £100 to Archie’s fund that they won in an internal SGN competition. “We spent two days at the house, so we got to know Archie quite well in that time,” said Lee. “He’s a lovely little boy – always happy and smiling. Knowing that we have been able to play a part, however small, in making a difference to his life, is very rewarding.” Archie’s mum, Debbie, said: "We were so grateful to have the help and support from the Southern Gas Networks team. The guys worked so hard and did such a great job that we are now ready to start work on building Archie's Garden." SGN team repays community support with village hall facelift Press release issued 25 July 2014 A team from gas distribution company, Southern Gas Networks (SGN), has transformed Lytchett Matravers Village Hall to say thank you to the local community for their support during a supply interruption. Last November, an emergency team from SGN’s Poole depot used the village hall as their base of operations after an incident with a gas regulator station caused 1,300 customers in the Dorset village to lose their gas supply for two days. Gavin Brown, General Manager and Stuart Mason, Team Manager, who helped organise the project, explained: “When there is a district incident it’s good to have a central point where members of the public can come and speak to us and where we can give out heaters and other equipment, so we were very grateful to the community for the use of the hall. “It was clear when we were here last year that the hall was in need of a lick of paint. We promised then that we would come back and redecorate and that’s exactly what we did!” The 30-strong team worked tirelessly for three days repainting and patching up walls, painting window frames and ceilings and cleaning skylights. They brought in scaffolding to help them reach the highest windows and the ceiling in the Main Hall, which hadn’t been painted since it was built 41 years ago. A tidy-up of trees outside the building completed its transformation. The team offered their help to the village as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) in which all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. Chairman Linda Perry, from Lytchett Matravers village hall, said: “We are very grateful to SGN for all their hard work. The village hall is the hub of our community and the focal point for a huge variety of activities. “All our users have been full of praise for SGN giving us this much-needed facelift, which we would never have been able to achieve without them. It has given us all such a boost that we are now redoubling our fundraising efforts to refurbish our toilets to match!” £284,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for West Malling Press release issued 22 July 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) is investing £284,000 in an upgrade of the local gas supply network in West Malling. The existing metal gas mains and services in the High Street need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Our work will be carried out in phases, beginning on Monday, 28 July and take an estimated 14 weeks in total to complete. Work will start at the north end of the High Street, progressing towards Swan Street, for approximately nine weeks. Two-way temporary traffic lights will be in place to safely control the flow of traffic around our work area. It will also be necessary to install three-way temporary traffic lights for approximately two weeks, when we are working at the junction with Swan Street. The temporary traffic lights will be manually controlled at peak times to ease congestion. In the second phase we will be working at the junction with King Street, continuing down the High Street towards West Street. This work will take place within the footpath for approximately five weeks. We will need to suspend some parking bays and bus stops in the vicinity of our work. This will be kept to a minimum and the restrictions will be lifted as we move along the street. Access to homes and businesses for vehicles and pedestrians will be maintained at all times. SGN Construction Manager Russ Goodayle said: “We have been working closely with Kent County Council and West Malling Parish Council in planning this project, and will continue to work with the local authorities and the community. “We are committed to doing everything we can to minimise disruption during this essential work. Our teams will be working extended hours and weekends to complete the project as quickly as possible. Shops and businesses in the High Street, and the Ryarsh Lane car park remain open as usual. “We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks and I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. The new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, local residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Ashford as part of £307,000 project Press release issued 10 July 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in the Willesborough area of Ashford. The existing metal gas mains and services in Hythe Road need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. The work will be carried out in phases during school summer holidays and it is anticipated to take a minimum of three years. The 2014 phase of work will begin on Thursday, 24 July and last approximately six weeks. Work will progress eastwards along Hythe Road (A292) from Sprotlands Avenue towards Church Road in 100-metre sections. To allow room for the manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety, temporary two-way traffic lights will be in place around the works area. The temporary traffic lights will be manually controlled during the day to ease congestion. SGN Construction Manager Russ Goodayle said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Kent County Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. We will be working extended hours to complete the project as quickly as possible. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, local residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Road closure and diversion planned for Oxshott as part of essential gas mains replacement work Press release issued 9 July 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting the second phase of its work in Oxshott to upgrade the local gas supply network. The existing metal gas mains and services in the High Street and Leatherhead Road are coming to the end of their useful life and need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. The project has been planned in close collaboration with Surrey County Council. The first phase of the project began in Oakshade Road, Oxshott, on 16 June. The second stage, which will start on Monday, 14 July, will run for approximately seven weeks and involve a road closure for through traffic along the High Street and Leatherhead Road, between the junctions of Steel’s Lane and Charlwood Drive. Residents will have access to their properties but at times vehicle access may be restricted during our working day. The southern point of the road closure will move northwards along Leatherhead Road towards the High Street as our project progresses. For properties north of Wren’s Hill, residents will at first be able to enter and exit Oxshott village via Oakshade Road. This will change to the southbound route as our work progresses northwards along Leatherhead Road. We will notify affected properties by letter in advance of their access changing. This information will also be published on our website, www.sgn.co.uk Access to the local shops for northbound traffic from Leatherhead will be maintained via Steel’s Lane. Oakshade Road will be open for access for local residents. The diversion route for northbound traffic travelling towards Oxshott from Leatherhead will be via Oaklawn Road onto the A245 (Woodlands Road) into Cobham town centre, the A307 into Esher town centre and then onto the A244 towards Oxshott. The reverse route applies for southbound traffic. To avoid impacting on the Ride London-Surrey 100 cycle event, our work will be suspended on Friday, 8 August and restart on Monday, 11 August. The final stage will run for approximately five weeks in Birds Hill Rise from 1 September. At this time the A244 High Street / Leatherhead Road will be fully open. Residents of the Crown Estate will be advised of the traffic management requirements. SGN Construction Manager Andy Gilbert said: “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. All our work is being carried out in close collaboration with Surrey County Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption for local residents as far as possible. “A detailed customer leaflet has been delivered to all local properties to explain what residents can expect from our work. This includes an FAQ section which we have pulled together as a result of our open event for the public which was attended by more than 150 people. The leaflet is also available on our website.” SGN directors swap suits for shovels to support charity partner Barnardo’s Press release issued 2 July 2014 The big bosses from the UK’s second largest gas distribution company took a day out from the boardroom to help improve the facilities at one of the centres operated by charity partner Barnardo’s. The Executive team from Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) spent the day refurbishing the play area at the Banbury respite centre of the UK’s leading children’s charity. The team of 22 included SGN’s Chief Executive Officer John Morea and Director of Corporate Services Gary Barnes. The directors offered up their help to Barnardo’s Sycamore Resource Centre as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) whereby all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN announced its year-long corporate partnership with Barnardo’s in April this year. The main job was to install a ground level specialist trampoline as well as generally refurbish the play area at the Oxfordshire centre, where mums and dads get a well-earned break from looking after their disabled kids, many with learning difficulties and Autism. The centre caters for children aged from five to 18. It has some very dedicated staff who can spend anything from a few hours to a few days looking after the youngsters, including sleepovers. Director of Operations (South) Peter Webster said: “The trampoline had to be at ground level so 17 tonnes of soil was removed to make this happen. There was lots of hard graft and digging by all the team, with even our Director of IT showing he's not afraid of some hard graft. It was a very rewarding and exhausting day!” Ruth Clacy, Children’s Services Manager at the centre, said: “The children have all been so excited, and parents and siblings have been brought in to have a turn on the trampoline. “All the staff and young people are overwhelmed with the generosity, kindness and willingness of the team of volunteers who laboured under the hot sun all day. “Because of the expertise of the team, it has been installed to the safest standards, and nothing was too much trouble for the volunteers on the day. “Young people are now able to bounce away any negativity or frustration they might incur due to their Autism, or other disabilities. “We feel that we can now offer a more exciting respite service to disabled children in Oxfordshire.” Stephen Noble, Head of Workplace Giving & Corporate Support at Barnardo’s, added: “I’ve attended a few corporate team volunteering challenges over the years but I’ve honestly never seen a team enjoy their day’s labours as much as Scotia Gas Networks at Barnardo’s Sycamore Resource Centre. “I guess they are skilled at digging holes but even so, the sunken trampoline installation was a superb job expertly completed!” Barnardo’s works with more than 200,000 children, young people and their families each year. The charity runs more than 900 services across the UK. SGN employees donate extra time to local charity Press release issued 26 June 2014 When gas distribution company Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) says it likes to give something extra back to the communities it serves, it really means it. Nine employees from SGN’s Stornoway depot, which helps ensure a continued safe and reliable supply of gas to homes and businesses in the town, recently spent a day helping a local charity to get their premises shipshape. The team offered up their help to Alzheimer Scotland’s Lewis and Harris Services in Stornoway as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) whereby all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. SGN has a long-standing relationship with the community in Stornoway, so the employees were very pleased to be able to give some of their time and manpower to Alzheimer Scotland’s important facility for local people, the Solas Centre. The team worked hard all day, dividing themselves into two groups so they could work inside and outside the Solas Centre at the same time. One group concentrated on painting the living room walls and ceiling, and gave it two coats of paint. The other group headed out into the garden where they power washed the patio to give the slabs a thorough clean. They also spruced up the wooden garden furniture. SGN Team Manager David Henderson organised the CAP day with Alzheimer Scotland Lewis and Harris. He said: “Our Community Action Programme day gave us an opportunity to work together on something completely different, and it was great to be able to devote our day to such a great cause. We enjoyed the whole experience from start to finish - and the rain stayed off in the morning which helped! “Our thanks go to the team at Alzheimer Scotland’s Lewis and Harris base for inviting us to come along for the day. We hope the freshly painted living room and the patio area will be enjoyed by those using the Centre.” Marion MacInnes, Service Manager for Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We would like to express our sincere thanks for the materials and all the hard work the team dedicated. Everyone worked flat out, great team spirit was clear, and it made a huge saving to us as a charity as paying for someone to decorate is expensive and can deplete our much-needed funds, and any spare time we have outside service hours needs to be concentrated on our fundraising activities. “Thanks also to the SGN employees for a generous cash donation they gave us which will be put to good use for the people with dementia who use the service.” Gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Bridge of Weir as part of £26,000 project Press release issued 25 June 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is investing £26,000 in an upgrade of the local gas network in Main Street, Bridge of Weir. The work will start on Monday 30 June and take approximately three weeks. A new modern plastic polyethylene (PE) gas main will be laid to reinforce the existing network and to meet an increased demand for gas. This will ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area for many years to come. To ensure everyone’s safety while our works are carried out, it will be necessary to temporarily close Prieston Road at the junction with Main Street. This temporary closure will be in place for approximately three weeks. Signed local diversions will be in place for traffic. Access to Prieston Road will remain available from all other adjoining streets and it will be possible to access homes and businesses at all times. There will also be three-way temporary traffic lights in place at the junction of Main Street, Bridge of Weir Road (A761) and Kilbarchan Road. The lights will be manually operated at peak times to assist the flow of traffic. As part of our planning process we have met with Renfrewshire Council and will continue to work with the local authority and residents throughout the course of our works. Our engineers will be working five days a week between 8am and 4.15pm, along with weekend shifts as required, to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager James Harkin said: “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating and would like to thank everyone for their patience while we carry out our works. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and complete our works as quickly as possible. “We are mindful of those people who live in the area and will try to minimise noisy activities where possible.” SGN employees play ‘Star’-ring role at awards for frontline utility industry staff Press release issued 24 June 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) has scooped three coveted gongs at the inaugural Utility Week Stars Awards. The awards event, held on 13 June at Lancashire County Cricket Club, was hosted by stand-up comedienne Holly Walsh who praised the hard work carried out ‘behind the scenes’ by employees working for utilities companies. These Awards organised by Utility Week magazine were initiated to celebrate the vital contribution of frontline and back office staff, recognising individuals and teams from energy and water businesses. They focus on the unsung heroes of utilities; the people who go that little bit further to improve customers’ experiences; the back-office teams and dedicated customer service providers who make a real difference to peoples’ lives. SGN was proud to be the first company to win the trophies for Apprentice of the Year, the Innovator award, and the Health and Safety award. The Apprentice of the Year award was won by SGN’s David Lochhead, a shining example to his peers, who has inspired other apprentices with his work ethic, positivity and ambition. The Innovator award was won by SGN’s Innovation Team for a pioneering project involving robot repairs to leaking joints on live gas mains for the first time in the UK. The Health and Safety award was won for an initiative led by our operational managers involving a new approach to our health and safety initiatives. They held a series of workshops in the summer of 2013 which helped develop an enhanced performance management framework which has raised further safety awareness. Meanwhile, SGN Training Co-ordinator Julie Lowrey was Highly Commended in the Giving Back category for her work in co-ordinating and promoting the company’s Community Action Programme (CAP). In addition, Julie also encourages and motivates other staff to support numerous other fundraising schemes. SGN Director of Operations (South) Peter Webster collected the Innovator award. He said: “We are delighted to win the awards in these categories which are such important areas of our business. We believe in nurturing engineering talent, and developing new technologies to help make life better for our customers, while safety is at the heart of everything we do as a company. “We have a great team at SGN and I’d like to thank everyone at our company who contributes on a daily basis to bringing home awards such as these. They all play a part by carrying out their roles with dedication and customer focus.” In addition to winning these awards, SGN was also a finalist in four other categories: the Customer Service award; Team of the Year – Customer Facing; the ‘Above and Beyond’ award – Individual; and the ‘Above and Beyond’ award – Team. Sun shines on community team work as SGN clears the way in Oban Press release issued 17 June 2014 When gas distribution company Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) says it likes to give something extra back to the communities it serves, it really means it. Six employees from SGN’s Oban depot, which helps ensure a continued safe and reliable supply of gas to homes and businesses in the town, recently got stuck in to the maintenance of a popular pathway used by local walkers. The team offered up their help to Argyll & The Isles Coast & Countryside Trust (ACT) as part of SGN’s Community Action Programme (CAP) whereby all employees are given a day off work every year to help make a difference in their local community. The well-used path between Polvinister Road and Rockfield Road, which had become overgrown, was treated to a make-over by the SGN employees who brought along their own spades, a wheelbarrow and a mini-digger to help get the job done. They worked all day to make it easily accessible again, cutting back brambles and nettles, and removing moss from the steps to make them safe. They also laid five tonnes of chippings, at the start of the pathway to help define it clearly, as well as at a section of the route which has tended to become waterlogged in the past. James Rigby, Trainee Technical Manager at the depot, organised the CAP day with the Trust. He said: “Working on the footpath gave our team an opportunity to work together on something completely different. We enjoyed the whole experience from start to finish, and the sun shone for us which was a bonus.” “Our thanks go to Argyll & The Isles Coast & Countryside Trust and to Argyll & Bute Council for their support. We hope the footpath continues to be walked and enjoyed by the public.” Julie Young, Development Officer for ACT said: “It’s great to see businesses supporting communities in this way and we were delighted to be able to involve SGN. Local people will be able to make much better use of the path now that these improvements have been made. We’d be really happy for SGN offer to assistance again. We have a long wish list of projects and are always looking for help from local businesses.” SGN has a long-standing relationship with the Oban community. The depot has been based in Lochavulin Industrial Estate since 1970, and the Oban team has been involved in at least two Community Action Programme events recently. SGN is also working on an exciting and pioneering project with the Oban community over the next two years to test new types of natural gas to enable national gas regulations to be changed. The company will be asking all its gas customers to take part in a testing exercise starting in late August, which could lead to better security of gas supplies and potentially lower bills. Fairytale float carries CO safety message to Horley Carnival Press release issued 12 June 2014 Wet weather didn’t dampen the spirits of the Southern Gas Networks (SGN) team who entered a fairytale float carrying an important safety message in this year’s Horley Carnival. Volunteers from SGN’s Horley and Horsham bases manned the float as it joined a procession of others to weave through the Surrey town, which is home to the company’s head office. The team worked with local designer Mad Ideas and Horley-based Archway Theatre Company to transform one of SGN’s flat-bed lorries into a fairytale themed float. The theme of the 2014 carnival was ‘Musicals’ and the SGN float told the story of Sleeping Beauty who was overcome by carbon monoxide poisoning. The victim is rescued by Prince Charming in the form of one of the gas distribution company’s First Call Operatives, who alerted them both to the presence of the deadly gas thanks to his trusty Personal Atmosphere Monitor. Carbon monoxide can kill quickly and with no warning. It’s called the silent killer as it’s a highly poisonous gas with no smell, no taste and no colour. It can be produced when any fossil fuel such as coal, wood or natural gas does not burn correctly. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal and early symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, tiredness and headaches. SGN employees were also on hand to raise awareness of carbon monoxide at a stand at the Recreation Ground. The stand included a tombola offering carbon monoxide alarms as prizes, with funds raised to be donated to the company’s charity of the year Barnardo’s. SGN Connections Support Manager Kristina Brown, who organised the SGN carnival team, said: “It was great to see everyone pitch in to help at such a fantastic event – a real team effort from our Horley and Horsham colleagues. “It was a proud moment seeing our balloons and leaflets being handed out by our people, helping raise awareness of carbon monoxide, and hopefully, we may even have saved lives.” SGN cycling supremos tackle Tour de France stages in gas industry charity challenge Press release issued 10 June 2014 Three cycling enthusiasts from Southern Gas Networks (SGN) joined with industry colleagues to tackle a wheelie extreme challenge. This summer, Yorkshire will stage the Grand Départ of the 2014 Tour de France. Before the professionals embark on the gruelling route in July, our very own SGN cycling supremos took on the challenge of completing two 100-mile stages over just two days. Portsmouth-based trio Chris Fletcher, Dave Dawkins and Paul Morris joined with a team from fellow gas distribution company Northern Gas Networks in a bid to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. The 18-strong group set off in waves, with the SGN team last to leave the starting point in Leeds. Not deterred by this, the trio made quick progress, riding like a well-drilled team taking turns to ride at the front and zipping up climbs. Billed as a ‘sprint’ for the professionals, SGN Team Manager Chris Fletcher described it as “very hilly for the average cyclist”. Despite hills, heavy rain and wind, the team were unfazed and battled on through to their end point in Harrogate, beating their Northern Gas Networks counterparts in the process. Day two brought more hills and bad weather as the three hardy cyclists set out to pedal another 100-odd miles through the beautiful, but bleak, Yorkshire Dales. For most the day, Chris, Dave and Paul battled strong headwinds and yet more rain, but not even the lure of a pub lunch in front of an open fire stopped them for long. SGN Team Manager Chris Fletcher added: “I think we would all agree that the Dales were beautiful but very bleak in the wind and rain! It’s a challenge that few people would ever complete and we helped raised over £3,000 for a great cause in the process.” Chris Fletcher, Dave Dawkins and Paul Morris are all smiles before the start. Dundee depot opened by Lord Provost as SGN builds on commitment to city Press release issued 30 May 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) has welcomed Dundee’s Lord Provost, Bob Duncan, to officially open its new premises at Baird Avenue in the Dryburgh Industrial Estate, which it shares with sister company Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution (SSEPD). At the ceremony yesterday afternoon, the Lord Provost unveiled a plaque celebrating the opening of the building and both companies’ continuing commitment to the city of Dundee. The new build depot and offices provide a new home for dozens of electricity and gas engineers, emergency repair and maintenance, contracting, metering, street lighting and administrative staff who have been amalgamated under one roof for the first time in Dundee. Local contractor Ogilvies carried out the majority of the work on the building which utilises energy efficient lighting and air conditioning, modern open plan office space and solar panels installed on the roof of the building, generating energy directly for the site. The investment in the central location strengthens further the commitment to Dundee, enabling closer working links with customers and contractors. SGN owns and operates the gas distribution network in Scotland, delivering gas to around 75 percent of Scottish households. At its Dundee base, it employs 170 people and also hires around 70 contractors. Its area of operation stretches from Invergordon in the north of Scotland, down to Crieff in the west and across to Tayport in the east. The depot has three satellite depots in Inverness, Elgin and Aberdeen to support the workload across the large geographical area. Over the next 12 months the depot will invest £5million across its operational area upgrading the gas network, including £1.6million in the city of Dundee. Old metal gas mains will be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area for many years to come. In recent years around 69% of the gas network in the area has been replaced with PE pipe which has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. The visit by the Lord Provost has reinforced the company’s relationship with the city. Lord Provost Bob Duncan said: “The work of SSE and SGN is one of the city’s best kept secrets. I’m very pleased to see the commitment of both companies to the city of Dundee. The building is a fantastic facility and I wish both companies happy times ahead in this new office. I’ve learnt today that’s there a lot of good work going on here and I’m delighted to declare the Dundee depot open.” Gary Barnes, SGN’s Director of Corporate Services, said: “We’re delighted with this new modern depot which underlines our plans to invest in the local gas network in the forthcoming year. Sharing this facility with our sister company SSE is good news for our stakeholders, good news for our customers and employees, and good news for the city of Dundee.” School pupils learn about gas safety at annual Safetaysiders event Press release issued 28 May 2014 Gas pipeline operator Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is delighted to be at the Safetaysiders event in Perth again this year, teaching school pupils from across Tayside about gas safety. SGN has two displays at this year’s event which will educate the children about general gas safety and carbon monoxide. As the gas emergency service provider in Scotland, SGN is highlighting what you should and should not do when you smell gas as well as teaching the pupils how to be safe in their homes, when on holiday and around roadworks, SGN is also keen to promote greater awareness of the dangers of the ‘Silent Killer’ carbon monoxide. As carbon monoxide poisoning is a danger during leisure pursuits such as camping and caravanning we have brought along a caravan and awning, along with items of camping equipment, to demonstrate where the dangers lie. The children will be asked to complete a worksheet at this display to test them on what they have learnt and reinforce the safety messages. Safetaysiders has been running in Perth and Kinross for the last 17 years. During that time it has informed thousands of children from across Perth and Kinross how to deal with potentially dangerous situations and equip them with life learning skills. SGN’s Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Margaret Hunter, said: “Safety is our main focus, for both the general public and our own employees. “We’re delighted to be part of this excellent event and hope that the children will learn useful information which will keep them safe, and they will take the safety messages home with them to share with their families and friends.” Gas network investment in the pipeline as part of Southwark regeneration programme Press release issued 20 May 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work in Thurlow Street, Southwark. As part of the Aylesbury regeneration programme, the existing gas main in Thurlow Street needs to be moved to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to South London. The project will begin on Monday, 2 June and last approximately six weeks. Work will take place in Thurlow Street between East Street and the Aylesbury Medical Centre. To allow room for the manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety, temporary traffic lights will be in place around the works area at times as the project progresses along Thurlow Street. SGN Team Manager Geoff Farthing said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with the London Borough of Southwark and the developer London & Quadrant. We will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption and I would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work.” SGN scoops Customer Service honours at gas industry awards Press release issued 16 April 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) has been awarded the much sought-after Customer Service award at this year’s flagship industry awards organised by IGEM and the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA). The honour was awarded for SGN's Opening up the Gas Market project. The initiative was awarded £1.9 million in the Network Innovation Competition at the end of last year to establish if a wider range of gas composition can be safely and efficiently used in the GB gas network, potentially enabling new and alternative sources of gas to be connected and distributed within GB. The success of the project is entirely dependent on positive engagement with customers. The Gas Industry Awards 2014 were held on Wednesday, 14 May with more than 500 guests attending the ceremony at London’s Park Lane Hilton. The guest speaker was the Rt Hon Caroline Flint MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change. Caroline’s speech touched on energy efficiency, fuel poverty, shale gas, fracking and greening the gas network. The annual awards recognise and reward the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations working in the gas industry. The awards have a strong reputation for celebrating highly innovative work, exceptional talent and ingenuity. SGN Head of Customer Service Maureen McIntosh said: “We are delighted to receive this year’s Customer Service Award based on the 10/10 service we strive to give our customers. It’s a great team effort from everyone at SGN who has focused over the last couple of years to make customer service part of our DNA.” Innovation Project Manager Jamie McAinsh added: "The success of the Opening up the Gas Market project relies on keeping our customers engaged by always going that extra mile and I am delighted that we have been recognised as leading the way in customer service. The project is very challenging from a customer engagement perspective but we have the right team and support in place. "Our Oban colleagues have been outstanding in helping deliver this project so far. They are a key ingredient in making this project a success. We now hope to maintain our high customer service standards in Oban as the project progresses into the next phase." As well as winning the Customer Service award, SGN was also shortlisted seven times in six other categories. These were Manager of the Year, Engineer of the Year, Innovation Award, Leadership Award, Sustainability Award and two nominations for the Young Persons’ Achievement Award. Head of Customer Service Maureen McIntosh with Innovation Project Manager Jamie McAinsh Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Copnor as part of £196,000 project Press release issued 7 May 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in the Copnor area of Portsmouth. The existing metal gas mains and services in Copnor Road need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 12 May and last approximately 32 weeks. Work will progress along Copnor Road from New Road to Chichester Road in 100-metre sections. To allow room for the manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety, temporary traffic lights will be in place around the works area. The temporary traffic lights will be manually controlled during peak periods to ease congestion. In addition, all works will be suspended during the D-Day anniversary events in early June. SGN Construction Manager Garry Percival said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Portsmouth City Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. We will be working extended hours seven days a week to complete the project as quickly as possible. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, local residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” SGN joins forces with the Dominic Rodgers Trust for ‘Dominic’s Day’ Press release issued 29 April 2014 Scotia Gas Networks, which distributes gas to 5.8 million homes in Scotland and the south and south-east of England has joined forces with the Dominic Rodgers Trust to organise a national day to raise awareness about the dangers of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. Dominic’s Day will take place on Wednesday 30 April, in memory of Dominic Rodgers who was just ten years old when he died from CO poisoning in Huddersfield in 2004. He would have been 21 years old this April. After Dominic’s death, his mother Stacey Rodgers formed the Dominic Rodgers Trust and has campaigned tirelessly nationally for greater awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning and a wider use of carbon monoxide alarms in people’s homes. Stacey said: “More than 50 people a year still die from carbon monoxide poisoning in the UK. These are all deaths which could have been easily preventable. “The purpose of Dominic’s Day is to make people aware of the dangers of this 'silent killer', what to look out for and how to protect themselves.” Across the UK, other gas distribution networks will be getting involved and holding events to raise the profile of the Dominic Rogers Trust nationally. SGN’s Director of Corporate Services Gary Barnes said: “On Dominic’s Day, our engineers will wear special ‘Dominic’s Day’ badges to raise awareness about the campaign, and share Dominic’s tragic story with the customers they come into contact with to help educate them about the risks of CO. He added: “If the Dominic’s Day campaign helps to save just one life, it will have been worth it.” For further information about the Dominic Rodgers Trust, please visit www.dominicrodgers.org.uk. SGN's robot repairs are a winner in prestigious energy innovation competition Press release issued 25 April 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN), the UK’s second largest gas distribution network company, is one of the winners in this year's UK Energy Innovation Awards. The accolade, which was announced at the ceremony in Manchester last night, is for SGN's use of pioneering robotics technology known as CISBOT, which was developed in the US by New York-based energy research and development firm ULC Pipeline Robotics. Last year, SGN adapted the technology to enable repairs to leaking gas mains from the inside of the pipe for the first time in the UK. The joint SGN and ULC project won the Best Innovation Contributing to Customer Quality and Reliability of Supply award, beating off strong competition from a host of other talented companies and individuals The aim of the technology is to enable SGN to complete joint repairs on some of its larger iron gas mains without the need for multiple excavations in the road or taking the gas main out of service. Many of these larger pipes are often in densely populated, traffic-sensitive locations, so the use of CISBOT provides real potential for leakage repair with significantly less disruption to the public. The UK Energy Innovation Awards celebrate the projects, technologies and talent at the forefront of innovation within the energy sector. They are organised by the Energy Innovation Centre. The 2014 awards were backed by the UK’s energy leaders from across the gas, electricity and offshore renewables sectors – all of whom are committed to identifying new technologies that have the potential to increase efficiency, improve health and safety, and benefit customers. SGN Innovation and New Technology Manager Gus McIntosh said: “This is a wonderful achievement for our company and ULC. We're delighted the project has been honoured in such an important category, particularly as these awards showcase the star performers in the energy innovation sector. "Embracing innovation is part of our vision to go above and beyond in the delivery of gas by leading the way in engineering. “We’ve led the way on robotic repairs, thanks to the trail-blazing partnership we’ve developed with ULC." Earlier this year, SGN was awarded £6.5m by Ofgem to further develop robotics technology as part of the industry regulator’s Gas Network Innovation Competition. Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) links up with Barnardo’s for charity partnership Press release issued 11 April 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN), the UK’s second largest gas distribution network company, has chosen Barnardo’s to be its charity partner for 2014. And to kick-start the year-long initiative with the UK’s leading children’s charity on Friday, 11 April, SGN is going to donate £5 for every public reported gas escape it receives throughout the course of the day to Barnardo’s. The cash pledge will support the many services provided by the charity while it will also raise awareness of the National Gas Emergency Number – 0800 111 999. The £25,000 initiative will see SGN support the work of Barnardo’s throughout the length of the partnership, through fundraising and volunteering opportunities across its network areas in Scotland and Southern England. The launch will be celebrated with a ‘Go Green’ for Barnardo’s day on Friday, 11 April. Activities across SGN’s 20 offices and depots will be held, including a green themed bake sale, sponsored car wash and fancy dress activities. One of the senior managers will be sponsored to wear a green kilt for the day while others will have their facial hair painted green for the occasion. Barnardo's works directly with over 200,000 children, young people and their families every year. They run over 900 vital services across the UK, including counselling for children who have been abused, fostering and adoption services, vocational training and disability inclusion groups. Every Barnardo's service is different but each believes in the potential in every child and young person, no matter who they are, what they have done or what they have been through. SGN Chief Executive Officer John Morea said: “We are delighted to announce that we’ve chosen Barnardo’s to be our first ever charity partner for 2014. “As well as enabling us to support the vital work of the charity, the partnership will also prove vital in our stakeholder engagement work, particularly with helping us reach out to those affected by fuel poverty, one of our strategic objectives over the next eight years. “Fuel poverty is a significant issue in the UK, affecting more than one in three households in Scotland and one in five in England. Switching a household to gas from an alternative traditional source of fuel can often take that household out of fuel poverty as gas is considered to be more affordable.” Anyone who smells gas should dial the National Gas Emergency Number, which is open 365 days a year. Calls are free regardless of who you buy your gas from. Kind hearted SGN employees rapidly raise £5K for Scottish charity Press release issued 7 April 2014 Three teams of employees from gas distribution company Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) spent a chilly March afternoon powering down the River Tay to raise an amazing amount of cash for Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS) – with one team taking home the cup for second place in the ten raft race. Staff from our Edinburgh depot, Innovation team and Facilities department, as well as employees from our Scottish Independent Undertakings (SIUs) in Oban, Wick, Provan and Stornoway – making 23 in all – donned wetsuits and helmets and took on the charity’s white water rafting challenge. The fabulous sum raised by the employees was added to by the company’s ‘Into Action’ fund which supports employees’ charitable fundraising activities, bringing the total to £5,000. The teams set off from Aberfeldy and their competitive spirit and friendly rivalry helped them to paddle furiously along the three-mile flat race followed by an exhilarating ride over the rapids, all in the name of a great cause. The raft containing the SIU team members did exceptionally well and came in second with a time of 40 minutes. The team were delighted with this result, especially as many of them had travelled a significant distance to take part in the fundraiser. David McClymont, SIUs District Manager, said: “It was a fantastic event to be involved in and we would do it again. It was superbly organised by Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland, and we are really excited to have been able to raise this amount of money for them.” Fundraising Manager at CHSS, Paul Corrigan, said: “I would like to thank the three teams from Scotland Gas Networks for raising a fabulous £5,000. This is a massive contribution to Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s work and will have a really positive impact on our ability to continue to provide key services and support for those living with chest, heart and stroke illness across the region.” John Lobban, Managing Director, Scotland for Scotland Gas Networks, said: “I am very proud that so many of our employees wish to spend their spare time to help others less fortunate than themselves and I am very pleased we can support their efforts with a contribution from our ‘Into Action’ fund.” SGN announces external Advisory Panel Press release issued 4 April 2014 Gas Distribution Network Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) has announced the appointment of an external Stakeholder Advisory Panel to influence and support the delivery of a better service, better value for money and better engagement for all its stakeholders. The Panel will be chaired by Teresa Perchard who is an experienced independent consumer advocate with experienced and qualified individual members representing the diversity of SGN’s stakeholders and customer base. Ms Perchard is joined on the panel by Lucy McTernan who is Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations and Oli Howard who is Head of Stakeholder Engagement at Scope, an organisation that provides a range of services and raises awareness of the issues disabled people face. Gary Barnes, Director of Corporate Services for SGN said: “We’re absolutely committed to growing strong and enduring relationships with a wide variety of stakeholder and customer groups, built on trust with open and honest communication. The appointment of our Advisory Panel will be of benefit to all, helping us to improve our performance and deliver a better service for our customers and anyone affected by our activities or who has an interest in our business.” Ms Perchard added: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead the Stakeholder Advisory Panel. As energy costs continue to rise, the pressure is really on SGN to deliver the best possible services and value for money, to innovate and assist people in fuel poverty. Good communication and engagement with stakeholders will play a key role in helping the company make the right decisions on its priorities and continuous improvement. The members of the Advisory Panel bring a wealth of expertise and insight into stakeholder views. I am confident their contribution will really add value to the good work SGN is already doing.” Gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Bearsden Road and Fulton Street Press release issued 3 April 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is currently carrying out a £110,000 upgrade of 1km of the local gas network in Anniesland, Glasgow. The second phase of this project, in Bearsden Road and Fulton Street, will start on Saturday, 5 April, and take approximately two weeks. The work will be carried out by Gastec Utilities Ltd on SGN’s behalf. The existing metal gas mains and services are being replaced with modern plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe which has a minimum lifespan of 80 years, to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area for many years to come. To ensure everyone’s safety while we carry out our works, during this phase of the project it will be necessary to install temporary traffic lights at the junction of Fulton Street with Bearsden Road. Advance warning signs will be in place. It is quite possible that this may add some time on to drivers’ journeys, and they may wish to consider taking alternative routes during the two week period. The temporary traffic lights will be manually operated at peak times to assist the flow of traffic. A phase will be included in the temporary traffic lights’ sequence to enable pedestrians to cross the road safely. The temporary traffic lights will work in co-ordination with the existing traffic lights at the Sutcliffe Road and Bearsden Road junction. It will also be necessary for some parking restrictions to be implemented in the vicinity of the works. No Parking cones will be used to identify restricted parking areas. To minimise disruption this phase has been planned to be carried out during the local schools’ Easter holidays. Pedestrian access will be maintained to all businesses in the vicinity of the works. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager Manus Sweeney said: “We have met with Glasgow City Council during the planning process and will continue to work with them and local residents throughout the course of our works. Our engineers will be working seven days a week during this part of the project, with extended hours as required, to ensure our works are completed as quickly as possible. “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating and would like to thank everyone for their patience. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and complete our works as quickly as possible. We are mindful of those people who live in the area and will try to minimise noisy activities where possible.” £110,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Ayr Press release issued 1 April 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is investing £110,000 in an upgrade of 1km of the local gas network in the Leslie Crescent area of Ayr. The work will start on Sunday, 6 April and take approximately 14 weeks. The existing metal gas mains and services will be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area for many years to come. The work will take place in Leslie Crescent, Bourtree Park and Inverkar Road. As part of this, to ensure everyone’s safety, it will be necessary to temporarily close Castlehill Road southbound, between the roundabout at Morrison’s supermarket to the junction with Inverkar Road. This closure will be in place for approximately two weeks starting at 9.30am on Sunday, 6 April. Southbound traffic will be diverted along St. Andrew’s Street and down Dongola Road. As part of our planning process we have met with South Ayrshire Council and will continue to work with them and local residents throughout the course of our works. Our engineers will be working five days a week between 8am and 4.15pm, along with weekend working as required, to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager John Lambert said: “We understand that roadworks can be frustrating and would like to thank everyone for their patience. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption while we carry out these essential works. We are mindful of those people who live in the area and will try to minimise noisy activities where possible.” Sutton gas network investment in the pipeline as part of £1.2m project Press release issued 1 April 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work in Crown Road and Collingwood Road. Prior to the redevelopment of SGN’s Sutton gasholder site, the gas distribution company needs to remove all the equipment from its Crown Road site and reconfigure the local supply network. This essential project will ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the Sutton town centre for many years to come. Work will begin on Monday, 7 April and last approximately 26 weeks. The project will be carried out in three phases. Following two weeks of preparation work, the first eight-week phase will begin in Collingwood Road between Bushey Road and Crown Road. The works will progress to Crown Road between Brandon Road and St Nicholas Way for a further eight weeks, before moving to the Killick House car park for the final eight-week phase. Temporary two-way traffic lights will be in place during the Collingwood Road and Crown Road phases to allow room for manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety. SGN Maintenance Operations Manager Tim Pearce said: “We have worked closely with the London Borough of Sutton and the developer of our gasholder site, LXB Retail Properties Plc, in planning this work. We will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, this essential work will ensure that Sutton town centre continues to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Scotia Gas Networks supports national Fuel Poverty Awareness Day Press release published 28 March 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) the second largest gas distribution network company in the UK, is supporting national Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. SGN is using the event to raise awareness of the problems facing local people who struggle to heat their homes affordably, and the role that energy efficiency can play in making their homes warmer, more comfortable and cheaper to heat. Fuel Poverty Awareness Day is a national campaign that aims to highlight the reality of those living in fuel poverty and solutions that are available to tackle the current ‘cold homes crisis’. It is organised by the fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA) and supported by SSE, and highlights one of the main issues SGN is focusing a lot of its efforts on at present. To support this important initiative, SGN is giving a donation to NEA for every photo their staff take of themselves (known as a selfies) with their favourite cuppa. SGN Fuel Poverty spokeswoman Raini Scott explained: “Part of this national event is a campaign called The Nation’s Biggest Housewarming, which encourages supporters to hold their own ‘housewarming’ events to help raise funds to tackle fuel poverty. To many of us, a warm house goes hand in hand with enjoying a hot drink in your favourite mug. So we’re using this as our theme, working in the current craze for selfies. “We’ll be showcasing the best of the images on our social media sites. In addition, today we’re raising awareness of our Assisted Connections scheme, which provides support to households in fuel poverty who could benefit financially from switching to gas as their main source of fuel.” Fuel poverty is a significant issue in the UK, affecting more than one in three households in Scotland and one in five in England. Switching a household to gas from an alternative traditional source of fuel can often take that household out of fuel poverty as gas is considered to be more affordable. SGN is a member of NEA’s Business Supporters Group and has been tackling Fuel Poverty through its Assisted Connections scheme. The scheme, set up in 2009, has given financial support to around 23,000 fuel poverty households to connect to the SGN’s network, allowing them to access a more affordable source of fuel. More information about the Assisted Connections scheme and how to access it is available here. In addition to the Assisted Connections scheme, SGN has supported a number of discretionary projects. This includes several district heating schemes and the development of the Scottish Federation of Housing Association’s Carbon Portal and their Energy Ideas Fund. Raini added: “We welcome the opportunity to support further innovative projects throughout the year and we've been closely with our key stakeholders to identify such opportunities. Additionally, in the past month, we’ve held several very successful stakeholder engagement events in Scotland and England – this enabled our stakeholders to discuss the development of our fuel poverty strategy. If you, too, would like to read and provide feedback on our consultation document, it’s available here until 31 March.” Maria Wardrobe, Director of External Affairs at NEA, said: “I would like to thank SGN for supporting Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. Fuel poverty is currently at crisis levels, and the more organisations and individuals that become involved in the campaign, the further the energy efficiency message spreads; helping ensure more vulnerable people receive the help they deserve.” £470,000 gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Helensburgh Press release published 25 March 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is investing £470,000 in an upgrade of 5km of the local gas network in the East King Street area of Helensburgh. The work will start on Thursday 3 April and take approximately 10 months. The existing metal gas mains and services will be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area for many years to come. As part of our planning process we have met with Argyll and Bute Council and will continue to work with them and local residents throughout the course of the project. The project will be carried out in two phases. During Phase 1 we will be working in McAuslan Place, Garraway Road, Kirkmichael Road, Townhead Road, Stuckleckie Road, Ben Bouie Drive, Buchanan Road, Athole Street and Old Luss Road. This work will be carried out from April to September, approximately. Our work in the vicinity of St Joseph’s Primary School in Old Luss Road has been planned to take place during the school summer holidays, to keep disruption to a minimum. During Phase 2 we will be working in Henry Bell Street, Granville Street, East Montrose Street, George Street, Kings Crescent, Adelaide Street, East King Street and Princes Street East. This work will be carried out from September 2014 to February 2015, approximately. To ensure everyone’s safety while we carry out our works, it will be necessary to put temporary traffic lights in place at varying times during the project. These will be located in Old Luss Road, at the junction with Henry Bell Street and the junction with Athole Street. Our hours of working will be five days a week between 8am and 4.15pm, along with extended hours and weekend working as required, to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible. We are mindful of those people who live in the area and will try to minimise noisy activities where possible. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager Gerry Doherty said: “We understand that people get frustrated by roadworks and would like to thank them for their patience. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption while we carry out these essential works.” Two shortlistings for SGN robot repairs in UK’s prestigious innovation competition Press release issued 07 March 2014 Scotia Gas Networks (SGN), the UK’s second largest gas distribution network company, has joined a host of other talented companies and individuals in the shortlist for the fourth annual UK Energy Innovation Awards. SGN has been named a finalist in the Environmental Impact Award and the Best Innovation Contributing to Customer Quality and Reliability of Supply category. The entries are for pioneering robotics technology known as CISBOT, which was developed in the US by New Yorkbased energy research and development firm ULC Pipeline Robotics. Last year, SGN adapted the technology to enable repairs to leaking gas mains from the inside of the pipe for the first time in the UK. The aim of the technology is to enable SGN to complete joint repairs on some of its larger iron gas mains without the need for multiple excavations in the road or taking the gas main out of service. Many of these larger pipes are often in densely populated, traffic-sensitive locations, so the use of CISBOT provides real potential for leakage repair with significantly less disruption to the public. Earlier this year, SGN was awarded £6.5m by Ofgem to further develop robotics technology as part of the industry regulator’s Gas Network Innovation Competition. Organised by the Energy Innovation Centre, the UK Energy Innovation Awards celebrate the projects, technologies and talent at the forefront of innovation within the energy sector. The 2014 awards have the backing of the UK’s energy leaders from across the gas, electricity and offshore renewables sectors – all of whom are committed to identifying new technologies that have the potential to increase efficiency, improve health and safety, and benefit customers. This year’s awards will culminate in a high profile ceremony at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate on Thursday 24 April. SGN Innovation and New Technology Manager Gus McIntosh said: “Embracing innovation is part of our vision to go above and beyond in the delivery of gas by leading the way in engineering. “We’ve led the way on robotic repairs, thanks to the trail-blazing partnership we’ve developed with ULC. Therefore we’re delighted to be shortlisted for these awards that showcase the star performers in the energy innovation sector.”. SGN announces plans for Scotland’s first commercial green gas project Press release issued 05 March 2014 Pioneering plans for the first commercial green gas project in Scotland which will supply homes in Perthshire have been unveiled by Scotia Gas Networks (SGN). SGN, the second largest gas distribution network company in the UK, is working in partnership with Iona Capital and Keithick Biogas Ltd on the construction of Scotland’s first full scale gas-to-grid anaerobic digestion (AD) plant at Coupar Angus. When the plant comes into operation later this year, SGN – responsible for the local gas distribution network – will be responsible for the clean-up of over 5 million cubic metres of biogas produced by the anaerobic digester and injecting the resulting biomethane directly into the gas network. At maximum capacity, the plant will provide enough renewable gas for up to 5,000 homes in the summer and 1,500 in the winter. It will be the first plant in Scotland to inject renewable gas directly into the local distribution network on a full-scale basis. Anaerobic digestion is a natural process where, in the absence of oxygen, organic material is broken down by microorganisms to produce biogas which is rich in methane. The anaerobic digester at Keithick will produce this biogas from over 36,000 tonnes of whole crop rye, maize, sugar beet off-cuts, raw silage and vegetable wastes each year. This fuel will be sourced from Keithick Estate, and other local farms and businesses. Iona has been heavily involved in the development of AD infrastructure in the UK, having financed eight AD plants in England, Scotland and Wales. The AD plant is being supplied by MT-Energie, a leading German producer of turnkey biogas plants. Robert Wilby, SGN's Head of Business Development, said: “Greening the gas, by connecting distributed sources of renewable gas to our network as we are in Coupar Angus, is at the heart of our long-term vision of an enduring and sustainable gas network. It's a key part of our strategy, and also central to decarbonising the UK's heat supplies. "We have led the way in England with regards to green gas and are therefore delighted to be playing a key role in the delivery of the first gas-to-grid AD project operating in Scotland. We are excited to be working with Iona to further develop our green gas footprint." Nick Ross, Director at Iona Capital said: “This is the first gas-to-grid project we have completed and we are delighted to have been able to partner both Scotia Gas Networks and MT-Energie, who we both view as future strategic partners on AD projects. We believe the gas-to-grid market has great potential and are pleased to continue our contribution to the regional infrastructure programme. ” SGN CEO John Morea (right) joins Nick Ross, Director at Iona Capital, in signing the contract for Scotland's first fullscale gas-to-grid anaerobic digestion plant at Coupar Angus in Perthshire. Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Winton as part of £35,000 project Press release issued 26 February 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in Winton, Bournemouth. The existing metal gas mains and services in Wimborne Road need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 3 March and last approximately three weeks. The work will take place in Wimborne Road between its junctions with Bryanstone Road and Crimea Road. To ensure everyone’s safety, it will be necessary to temporarily close Talbot Road at its junction with Wimborne Road and a signed diversion will be in place. The existing four-way traffic lights in Wimborne Road at the junction with Talbot Road and Alma Road will be replaced with temporary three-way lights for the duration of the work. SGN Construction Manager Garry Percival said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Bournemouth Borough Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Christchurch gas upgrade continues as part of £58,000 Stanpit project Press release issued 14 February 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in the Stanpit area of Christchurch. The existing metal gas mains and services in Stanpit need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme in Christchurch developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 17 February and last approximately three weeks. The work will take place in Stanpit between Purewell Close and Purewell Roundabout. A temporary northbound road closure will be implemented between these junctions for the duration of the work. A signed diversion will be in place via Broadway, Mudeford, Bure Lane, The Runway, A337 Highcliffe Road and Somerford Road. Southbound traffic will be unaffected. SGN Construction Manager Garry Percival said: “We have worked closely with Christchurch Borough Council and Dorset County Council throughout our planning process. We are committed to completing these works as safely and efficiently as possible, and we will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our essential work. We appreciate that roadworks can be frustrating; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, the local community will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for many years to come.” Scotia Gas Networks scoops £8.4 million in Ofgem scheme for innovative projects Press release published 12 February 2014 Gas distribution company Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) has been awarded £8.4 million in Ofgem’s Gas Network Innovation Competition (NIC). The funding will be invested into two major projects. Both projects submitted by SGN received funding, an exceptional achievement as only four projects out of six bids entered into the competition by gas distribution companies were awarded. The winning projects will trial innovation practices and new technologies. SGN’s projects successfully met the remit to help drive the gas distribution industry forward, generating environmental benefits, cost reductions and ensuring security of supply as Great Britain (GB) moves towards a low carbon economy. The first project will establish if a wider range of gas composition can be safely and efficiently used in the GB gas network, potentially enabling new and alternative sources of gas to be connected and distributed within GB. This project was awarded £1.9m. The second project, which was awarded £6.5m, will develop new robotic technologies which operate inside live gas networks. This will allow extensive work to be carried out with minimum disruption. The robots will be used to repair leaking joints, support risk management of larger diameter pipes, remediate and replace pipeline assets. Throughout this project SGN will be working with New York-based partner ULC Pipeline Robotics. Ofgem – The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets – regulates the GB gas and electricity network companies and takes decisions on price controls and enforcement. In moving towards a lower carbon future, it is necessary for the networks to innovate in the way they design, plan, build and operate. Ofgem’s competitions allow the companies to compete for funding through a rigorous process. The Gas NIC is an annual opportunity to apply for funding for the development and demonstration of new technologies, operating them and commercial arrangements. Up to £18m is available to fund such projects which could deliver low carbon and environmental benefits to customers. This time £15.12m has been awarded. The gas distribution companies, along with a range of partners, will invest additional funding into their projects. SGN Innovation and New Technology Manager, Angus McIntosh, who led the bids, said: “It’s fantastic news for our company winning two pioneering innovation projects. Both our projects seek to transform the way we work and the market we operate in, for the benefit of both GB gas customers and our industry.” SGN Chief Executive Officer John Morea said: “Both our projects are highly technically challenging and at the cutting edge of innovation and technology. I believe they have the potential to transform the gas industry.” Charity calls for public health warnings on CO to reduce number of victims Press release published 5 February 2014 A leading charity is calling for the introduction of public health warnings about carbon monoxide (CO). According to latest figures compiled by CO-Gas Safety, 653 people have died and many thousands more have been injured as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning since 1995. The stats were highlighted at CO-Gas Safety’s annual national schools’ poster competition at the House of Lords last week. The competition, sponsored by Scotia Gas Networks (SGN), is run by the independent charity, which works to prevent deaths and injury caused by CO poisoning and other gas dangers, while supporting victims and their families. “Being a deadly gas which cannot be sensed by smell, taste, touch or hearing, it is vital that people are aware of the dangers and know the steps to take to reduce their risk of being poisoned,” said Stephanie Trotter OBE, president of CO-Gas Safety. “That is why we are calling for public warnings to be introduced, to advise families of the dangers and how to protect themselves. These are needless deaths and steps must be taken to prevent them.” Stephanie added: “When nine people died on level crossings last year, National Rail responded with television warnings and is looking at other ways to tackle the issue. Since we started in 1995 we have been asking for prime time TV warnings about carbon monoxide, which accounts for around 50 deaths per year – with many more likely to be due to the gas and other poisons of combustion. “We are also calling for improved training for installers and anyone working with fuels.” Around 100 people attended the special ceremony, including politicians, industry experts, as well as the competition winners and their families. The winners included Amber Nabney, who was a pupil at Kinson Primary School in Bournemouth when she created the artwork last summer, and Kirsty Braynion, who was a pupil at Our Lady & St Anne’s Primary in Hamilton when she entered the competition. Amber won the South of England category while Kirsty won the Scotland category. As well as the presentation of prizes, there were speeches from a number of special guests, including Lord Philip Hunt of Kings Heath, Baroness Finlay, CO victim Roland Wessling and Eileen Brown, from Northern Gas Networks. The schools’ poster competition is now in its sixth successful year. SGN is a long-term sponsor of the initiative, which is now also being supported by gas distribution companies Northern Gas Networks, National Grid and Wales & West Utilities. Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Reigate as part of £200,000 project Press release issued 5 February 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in Reigate. The existing metal gas mains and services in Hornbeam Road need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Saturday, 15 February and last approximately eight weeks. The work will be carried out in two phases. During the first phase, Hornbeam Road will be temporarily closed between Woodhatch Road and Trehaven Parade for approximately two weeks. A signed diversion will be in place and local businesses will be open as usual. The works will then progress along Hornbeam Road from Trehaven Parade towards Holly Road under temporary two-way traffic lights. This phase of work is estimated to last six weeks. SGN Construction Manager Mark Meloy said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Surrey County Council and we will be doing everything we can to minimise inconvenience. We have planned to complete our first stage of works, which involves the temporary closure of a section of Hornbeam Road, over the school half-term holiday in order to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for many years to come.” Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Woodstock as part of £70,000 project Press release issued 29 January 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in Woodstock. The existing metal gas main and services in Market Street need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 3 February and last approximately six weeks. The work requires the use of heavy plant and equipment. To ensure everyone’s safety, it will be necessary to temporarily suspend the parking bays in Market Street for the duration of the work. All shops and businesses will remain open as usual and access will be provided for deliveries. Pedestrian access to Market Street will be maintained at all times. In addition, temporary two-way traffic lights will be installed in Oxford Street at its junction with Market Street for two days. This will take place on two consecutive Sundays from late February. Advance notice signs will be in place prior to this stage of work commencing. SGN Construction Manager Graham Cox said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Woodstock Town Council and Oxfordshire County Council, and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Essential gas mains upgrade in the pipeline for Cambuslang Press release published 22 January 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is about to start essential work to renew the gas mains network in the vicinity of Freeneuk Lane and Freeneuk Wynd in Cambuslang. The work will start on Monday 27 January and will be carried out by GLH Utilities Ltd on SGN’s behalf. The work will take approximately 13 weeks to complete. As part of our planning process we have met with South Lanarkshire Council, the emergency services and Contraflow Ltd. We will continue to work with them and local residents throughout the course of our work. The existing gas mains pipe has reached the end of its useful life and we need to position the new steel gas mains in a different location, in Hamilton Road and Clydeford Road. Our work will be carried out in two phases: Phase one – approximately five weeks: Work will begin in Hamilton Road, between number 52/54 Hamilton Road and the junction of Hamilton Road with Clydeford Road, in the eastbound carriageway. During this work it will be necessary to close the nearside lane, nearest to the pavement. The outside lane will still be available for traffic to use. Phase two – approximately eight weeks: To allow for the manoeuvre of equipment and to ensure everyone’s safety it will be necessary to close Clydeford Road southbound, from the roundabout at the junction of Bridge Street, to the junction with Hamilton Road. The northbound lane will be open to traffic heading to Carmyle (M74) and will provide access to the residents of Freeneuk and local businesses. Advance notice signs will be in place informing road users and a diversion will be in place for traffic. All local shops and businesses will be open as usual and access for deliveries will remain. Pedestrian access will also be maintained at all times. Our hours of working will be seven days a week between 8am and 4.15pm. We are mindful of those people who live in the area and we will try to minimise noisy activities where possible. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager George McDonald said: “We understand that roadworks can be very frustrating for road users and we would like to thank everyone for their patience while we complete our works. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and to complete this project as quickly as possible.” Gas network diversion project in the pipeline for the Gorbals Press release issued 22 January 2014 Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) will soon be starting work in Ballater Street (A74) in the Gorbals, to divert a section of the local gas network. The work will be carried out by Gastec Utilities Ltd on SGN’s behalf. The work is due to begin on Monday 27 January and will take approximately six weeks to complete. The diversion of the gas mains pipe is necessary to allow Scottish Water to upgrade the existing sewer network. As part of our planning process we have met with Glasgow City Council, the emergency services and SPT. We will continue to work with them and local residents throughout the course of our works. To allow for the manoeuvre of equipment and to ensure everyone’s safety it will be necessary to close both eastbound lanes of Ballater Street, between its junctions with Crown Street and Florence Street, for the duration of the works. Advance notice signs will be in place informing road users and local diversions will be in place for traffic. Both lanes westbound will be available to traffic as usual. All local shops and businesses will be open as usual and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. We will be working seven days a week, with extended hours where required. We are mindful of those people who live in the area and we will try to minimise noisy activities where possible. Scotland Gas Networks Team Manager, Manus Sweeney, said: “We understand that roadworks can be very frustrating for road users and we would like to thank everyone for their patience while we complete our works. We will do everything we can to minimise disruption and to complete this project as quickly as possible.” Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Ewell as part of £180,000 project Press release issued 22 January 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in Ewell. The existing metal gas mains and services in Ewell High Street need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 27 January and last approximately seven weeks. The work will be carried out in two phases. Three-way temporary traffic lights will be in place at the High Street for approximately two weeks, before work progresses along High Street towards Reigate Road. During this second phase, a temporary one-way system will be implemented in High Street northbound between Reigate Road and Cheam Road for approximately five weeks. This will allow room for manoeuvre of equipment and ensure everyone’s safety. A signed diversion will be place for southbound traffic via Cheam Road, the Ewell By-Pass (A24) and Reigate Road. High Street businesses will be open as usual throughout the work. SGN Construction Manager Andy Gilbert said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Surrey County Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Gas upgrade in the pipeline for Lyme Regis as part of £75,000 project Press release issued 10 January 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in Lyme Regis. The existing metal gas mains and services in Coombe Street and Monmouth Street need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 13 January and last approximately 11 weeks. The project will be carried out in three phases and it will be necessary to enforce a temporary road closure during each phase to ensure everyone’s safety. Advance warning signs and a signed diversion will be in place. SGN Construction Manager Garry Percival said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Dorset County Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” Southern Gas Networks restarts work to upgrade Bournemouth supply network Press release issued 09 January 2014 Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will shortly be restarting work to upgrade the local gas supply network in Bournemouth. The existing metal gas mains and services in Columbia Road need to be replaced with modern plastic polyethylene pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community. This essential work forms part of an ongoing mains replacement programme developed with the Health and Safety Executive. Work will begin on Monday, 13 January and last approximately six weeks. It will be necessary to enforce a temporary road closure in Columbia Road to ensure everyone’s safety. Columbia Road will be closed eastbound between Kinson Road and Priestly Road for the duration of the work. A signed diversion will be in place for eastbound traffic via Kinson Road, Wallisdown Road and Boundary Road. SGN Construction Manager Garry Percival said: “All our work is being carried out in close consultation with Bournemouth Borough Council and we will be doing everything we can to reduce disruption. “I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.” A short video which explains more about what to expect from our mains replacement work can be found in the Roadworks section of our website.