Homeowners and businesses in Macroom will soon be able to connect to the natural gas network for the first time.

Representatives of Bord Gáis Networks met with key stakeholders and community representatives to present details of the c. €7.5 million construction programme. Construction work on the Macroom town network is due to start in early 2012, with natural gas expected to be available within six months.

Fran McFadden, Provincial Sales Manager for Munster said: "This is an important development for Macroom as it competes with other towns and regions for inward investment. We've had a very good response to date from businesses in the town wanting to change over to natural gas. These businesses can look forward to fuel cost savings of anywhere between 30% and 60% on their current fuel costs, together with reduced carbon emissions, no storage requirement and a constant, reliable supply of gas."

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Bord Gáis Networks recently connected its first industrial customer in Macroom, Nutricia Infant Nutrition Ltd., following completion of the feeder pipeline to Castleview at the edge of the town. For business and industry, natural gas can be used for a wide range of applications, from heating and hot water, to catering and cooking, to air-conditioning and electricity generation (combined heat and power).

Bord Gáis Networks implements a programme of communication and engagement with local stakeholders prior to any major project. David Golden, Construction Project Manager explained: "We will work closely with the relevant authorities and organisations, and keep businesses and residents along the route informed when we are working in their area. Local traffic management plans will be put in place along the affected routes and every effort will be made to minimise disruption."

(CD)