DRIVERS in Bude are set for ‘gridlock’ disruption as works year-long road works prepare for their next stage.

Since September 2025, Wales & West Utilities has been undertaking work to upgrade the gas pipe network in and around Bude.

The gas emergency and pipeline service has been working in conjunction with Cornwall Council to plan the project, and has been carrying out various phases of the project for the last 14 months.

The organisation has stressed that the work is vital to ensuring gas continues to flow safely and reliably to homes and businesses across the area - helping to keep people warm for decades to come. However, for many residents, the work has meant regular disruption and delays across the town.

Now, Wales & West Utilities has announced that it is moving into the next stage of the project, which will see multi-way traffic lights in place on the A39 / A3072 at their junctions with Binhamy Road, Stratton Road and Reden Road for 18 days from November 9 to November 27.

However, following this further works are set to see some of the town’s roads closed completely while work is carried out.

From January 4 until February 12, Lansdown Road is set for closure, while The Strand will see the installation of temporary traffic lights between January 18 and February 12.

Ahead of the works, Cornwall Councillor and Bude-Stratton Town Councillor, Cllr Peter La Broy has warned residents of the potential impact.

He said: “Early warning, Bude is likely to be gridlocked January and February for critical gas main pipe replacement.”

Despite disruption, Wales & West Utilities says that the project is part of its work to invest over £1.2-million during the next 18 months across Bude. The intensive programme of wider mains replacement works will see gas pipes upgraded across the area as the company upgrades the critical energy infrastructure in the area to benefit approximately 680 local customers.

Wales & West Utilities Roxanne Whittaker is managing this work and said: “We’re investing in our gas network to ensure it remains safe, reliable and fit for the future for the customers we serve. We'll be keeping the local community updated on these works and working with the local authority, and other key partners, to keep disruption to a minimum

“We understand our work can cause disruption, but it is essential to maintain a resilient gas network that households and business can rely on every day.

“While much of the gas network is out of sight, it plays a vital role in daily life – from heating homes to cooking meals and we know how important it is that gas is there when people need it.”