We're carrying urgent gas pipe replacement work along the A267 at Mayfield to ensure nearby homes and businesses continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.
This work follows third party damage to our network in January which caused water to enter our pipes and affect approximately 1400m of our infrastructure. It also resulted in around 70 properties temporarily losing their gas supply.
To restore the affected supplies, our engineers extracted the water and reintroduced gas. However, for the long-term safety and reliability of this pipe and adjoining services, we must urgently replace it.
For everyone's safety around our work areas, we will need to install temporary traffic measures. This work will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption:
- Phase one
Temporary traffic lights remain in operation on the A267 outside Gable Oast. - Phase two
From Monday 16 February, the A267 will be closed to motorists between Jessop and Yew Tree Lane. Due to the number of excavations required, we must close the road for everyone's safety. The A267 is expected to be closed for eight weeks. - Phase three
Our engineers will be replacing our damaged pipe between Gable Oast and the B2101 junction. Temporary traffic lights will be installed around our work area. - Phase four
The final phase of our work is the most complex. We'll be working at the A267-B2101 junction to replace our pipe and carry out controlled connections to our network infrastructure. During this phase, the A267 will be managed under temporary traffic lights. We will also need to close the B2101 Bicycle Arms Road at its junction with the A267, and we are currently working with East Sussex Council to agree on the most suitable timing for this closure.
Signed diversion routes will be in place for affected motorists while roads are closed. A separate diversion route is in place for HGVs. The closure area and diversion routes for phase two of our work are illustrated in the map below.
Vehicle access will be maintained for residents living within the works area. Vehicle access within the closure site will change as works progress. Our engineers and local signage will keep road users and residents informed.
Bus routes will be impacted – we advise passengers to contact the relevant bus operators for updates on changes to services. We’re working with the local council to ensure refuse collections can continue to be made with as little disruption as possible.
We appreciate roadworks can be frustrating. However, the new plastic pipe has a lifespan of approximately 80 years. This means once our work is done, residents and businesses will be able to enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the A267 closed at Argos Hill?
The road is fully closed at the junction with Yew Tree Lane to allow essential gas network upgrade work to take place safely.
Can pedestrians and cyclists still get through the closure?
Yes. Pedestrian and cyclist access will be maintained throughout the works.
How do residents within the works area access their homes?
Residents living between the B2101 (Bicycle Arms Road) and Yew Tree Lane will still have access but must approach and leave via the B2101 in the direction of Mayfield. Anyone travelling towards Mark Cross, Frant or Tunbridge Wells will need to follow the signed diversion route.
Is there a diversion route?
Yes. A simple diversion map is available on this page.
Will bin collections continue as normal?
Yes. We are working closely with Biffa to ensure collections can continue as usual.
Are emergency services aware of the closure?
Yes. All emergency services have been informed and have their own contingency plans in place.
What is being done to prevent drivers using unsuitable local lanes?
We are in weekly contact with Rotherfield and Mayfield Parish Councils. Additional signage has been installed to discourage drivers, especially HGVs, from using smaller lanes or travelling through the villages.
Will bus services be affected?
Bus companies are aware of the closure. Services are expected to run as normal, although delays are possible due to increased traffic in Rotherfield and Mayfield. Passengers should check with their transport provider for any updates.
How will school transport be affected?
East Sussex Council has written to parents and guardians of pupils using the UP06 closed door service to Uplands Academy. The letter confirms the revised route and timings that will apply from Monday 23 February.
How can I receive progress updates?
If you would like to receive regular updates by email, please contact our customer team who can add you to the project mailing list.
Is compensation available for small businesses?
Some small businesses affected by planned streetworks may be eligible for compensation. Full details are available here.