Over 180 miles of gas pipes will be upgraded across the east of England, stretching from Norwich to Brussels.

Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, is investing £91 million over the next 12 months to replace ageing metallic pipes, many of which are over 100 years old, with new plastic ones, ensuring future supply for 1.6 million local properties.

Upgrades will include nearly 50 miles of pipeline in Norfolk and approximately 45 miles in Suffolk.

186 miles of mains pipes will be upgraded in the region (Image: Supplied). Works began last month and will continue until March 2026. This is part of a three-decade programme to upgrade the UK gas network, which started in 2002.

Kerry Stimson, Cadent’s head of investment, stated: “We are well aware that the majority of homes in the east of England rely on gas for central heating, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they have it safely and reliably throughout the year.

“Metallic gas pipes have a safe working life, and when they reach the end, it is our responsibility to replace them.

“There are also significant environmental benefits for the region as a result of these upgrades, as they reduce methane emissions and enable the transition to more renewable gases such as biomethane.