United Living Infrastructure Services (ULIS) has completed a 73m-long gas pipeline tunnel beneath the Ulverston Canal in Cumbria.
Working on behalf of the UK’s gas distribution network, Cadent, ULIS, in collaboration with Joseph Gallagher Ltd, deployed a Herrenknecht AVN900 slurry TBM to complete the 900mm ID micro tunnel in just under three days.
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.
The project, which commenced in March, involves installing 850m of 305mm-diameter heavy-wall steel pipeline, primarily in fields adjacent to the Ulverston Canal. The new pipeline will create a safer and more resilient route for gas to reach essential facilities and homes across the region, including Barrow-in-Furness. It will replace an existing pipe beneath the canal footpath that is showing signs of deterioration.
The existing Ulverston to Barrow pipeline supplies gas to tens of thousands of properties in the area, and the new diversion will run parallel to the existing pipeline, but outside the immediate embankment area. Once the new pipeline is operational, the existing one will be decommissioned.
Given the working area’s 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.
United Living Energy managing director Benn Cottrell said the company was proud of the team’s efficiency and expertise in completing the challenging tunnelling 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,” he said.
Network Director for Cadent in the north-west Paula Steer said 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.
