15 May 2003 Gas pipeline planned

A major gas pipeline project is planned for Barton Stacey in spring 2004

Star Energy want to run a 17 mile pipeline to Barton Stacey's national gas network connection from their site at Humbly Grove (just north of Alton). The pipeline project is still awaiting approval from the Department of Trade and Industry, but Star Energy expect to appoint contractors during spring/summer 2004.

The project will involve a huge amount of digging, although it appears this will be managed in a manner which is sensitive to both the environment and the inhabitants. There should be minimal effect on Barton Stacey village.

The connection will be to a new above ground installation alongside the existing one which is in a fenced compound within the perimeter of the old Army Camp. The proposed route starts just north of the A303, opposite the west bound access road from Barton Stacey. The route then runs east-south-east, passing underground just north of the A303/A34 junction, then across open country to go under the M3 just north of East Stratton, before heading east-north-east to Humbly Grove.

Star Energy have published a community briefing document and set up a telephone information line on 01491 414 496. Additional information is also available from their web site at www.starenergy.co.uk

Despite this work, Barton Stacey will be no nearer to having mains gas available to houses in the village!

Note: The current digging activity on the verges of the northern carriageway of the A303 just east of the access road is nothing to do with the pipeline.

Date: Thursday 15 May 2003

News from our correspondent Andy Glenister of Barton Stacey, Hampshire.

Posted on 15 May 2003 at 05:32 pm