By rosebell
A 73m-long gas pipeline tunnel beneath the Ulverston Canal in Cumbria has been completed by United Living Infrastructure Services (ULIS).
In order to completing this 900mm ID micro tunnel in just under three days, Cadent, ULIS,that is working on behalf of the UK’s gas distribution network, in collaboration with Joseph Gallagher Ltd, deployed a Herrenknecht AVN900 slurry TBM.
Despite the team dealing with challenging ground conditions and minimal clearance beneath the canal bed, ULIS said the quick completion had put the overall project ahead of schedule.
Being started in March, this project involves installing 850m of 305mm-diameter heavy-wall steel pipeline, primarily in fields adjacent to the Ulverston Canal. Reaching essential facilities and homes across the region, including Barrow-in-Furness will be safer and more resilient route through the new pipeline. It will replace an existing pipe beneath the canal footpath that is showing signs of deterioration.
While providing gas of tens of thousands of properties in the area is up to the existing Ulverston to Barrow pipeline, the new diversion is due to run parallel to the existing pipeline, but outside the immediate embankment area. Following completion of the new pipeline, the existing one will be decommissioned.
Considering that the working area is proximity to Morecambe Bay, a European-designated Ramsar Site, Special Protection Area, and Special Area of Conservation, ULIS has ensured that appropriate steps are taken, including scheduled visits from ecologists, before undertaking any ecologically sensitive works.
According to United Living Energy managing director Benn Cottrell: “The company was proud of the team’s efficiency and expertise in completing the challenging tunneling phase ahead of schedule. This project is vital for the long-term energy security of Cumbria, and United Living is committed to delivering it with the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility.”
Also Network Director for Cadent in the north-west Paula Steer added, completing the tunnel beneath the canal in such a short time was a major achievement, and the project was now well into the next phase of laying the new pipe.
