Full Breakdown
Major Gas Outage Affects 4,600 Homes in South Devon
1/5/2026, 12:28:49 AM
Overview of the Gas Outage
A significant gas outage has impacted approximately 4,600 properties in South Devon, primarily affecting the towns of Malborough, Kingsbridge, and Salcombe. The disruption began on Saturday due to damage to a mains gas pipe caused by third-party work at Belle Hill near Kingsbridge. Wales and West Utilities (WWU) has mobilized over 100 engineers to restore gas supplies, with efforts focused on ensuring safe reconnections for all affected homes.
Restoration Efforts Underway
WWU has stated that each affected property requires two visits from engineers: one to isolate the gas supply and another to restore it. As of Sunday, the company reported that the damaged mains pipe had been repaired overnight, and restoration efforts were underway. The majority of properties in Malborough were prioritized for reconnection, with Kingsbridge and Salcombe to follow. Residents have been urged to remain at home to facilitate access for engineers, as this will expedite the restoration process.
Impact on Local Services and Businesses
The outage has led to the closure of Kingsbridge Primary School and has affected several other schools in the area, including Kingsbridge Community College and Salcombe Primary School, due to the lack of heating and hot water. Local businesses, particularly those reliant on gas, have also been severely impacted. Wayne Grills, the owner of Pizza Planet in Kingsbridge, reported that his restaurant had to close immediately upon learning of the gas disruption, noting the timing was particularly unfortunate as it coincided with a busy weekend before schools resumed.
Official Statements and Community Response
Caroline Voaden, Member of Parliament for the area, expressed concern for the elderly and vulnerable residents affected by the outage. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing these individuals in the restoration efforts, stating, “I am very concerned about how this may impact the elderly and vulnerable. WWU have said they are prioritising these customers. Let’s hope they get them back up and running first.” WWU has acknowledged the challenges posed by the outage and thanked residents for their patience during the restoration process.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While WWU has indicated that restoration efforts are progressing, there is no definitive timeline for when all affected properties will have their gas supplies fully restored. Some residents may experience delays, with reconnections potentially extending into Monday or Tuesday. The exact number of properties visited by engineers varies across reports, with some sources stating that 60% of properties have been attended to.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We had to close, we cook on gas like many restaurants and takeaways,” — Wayne Grills, Owner of Pizza Planet
- “Our teams will continue trying into this evening and from first thing, and we really do urge people to ensure someone is at the property so that we can have access to isolate the supply.” — WWU Spokesperson
- “Ms Voaden said she was particularly concerned about the impact on elderly and vulnerable residents, adding: “I am very concerned about how this may impact the elderly and vulnerable.” — Caroline Voaden, MP for the area
The situation remains fluid as WWU continues its efforts to restore gas supplies to all affected homes and businesses in South Devon.
