SOE15620 – Loose Road, Maidstone (Loose Road)
PROJECT: SOE15620
Location: Loose Road, Maidstone
(Loose Road)
Update: 10.11.2025
We are now entering the final stages of the replacement works. This week, our crews will complete 400 metres of mains installation opposite the Fire Service Training Centre. At the same time, we are facilitating connections to the existing road-crossing main.
In parallel, service preparation works are underway, along with preparations for the four planned tie-ins at the signalised Wheatsheaf Junction.
Next week, we will proceed with the commissioning and completion of all tie-ins, followed by the replacement of the pipeline sections immediately adjacent to—and feeding into—the governor.
Update: 31.10.2025
By close of play today (31.10.25), all being well, we will have laid and abandoned approximately 550m of main (a mix of 6” and 9” pipe). We have fallen short by around 60m of the 9” main this week, as we are currently unable to seal the main due to excessive rust present. We will return to address this section as part of the works around the MP governor, which we plan to commence week after next.
Looking ahead, the teams are forecasting to replace and abandon approximately 700m of main next week, which will see us complete works on the odd side up to the fire station. In addition, we plan to replace approximately 40m of ductile main feeding the fire training centre. This section will be left temporarily and completed once the even-side mains have been finished.
Works on the even side are scheduled to start next week and continue into the following week. During this period, we will also begin preparation works around the governor section.
Update: 21.10.2025
Works have commenced on Loose Road, with two operational teams currently replacing our gas assets on either side of the carriageway. The project involves the replacement of four gas mains extending from the Wheatsheaf traffic light junction to Kent Fire and Rescue’s Training Centre.
A road closure has been implemented at the Wheatsheaf junction to enable these works to be carried out safely. Designated spotters are positioned within the area and clear signage is in place advising that certain routes are unsuitable for HGVs.
The diversion route has been established to support the safe and efficient movement of traffic throughout the duration of the works.