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Working Together to Keep People Safe Around BPA’s Buried Pipeline Network

BPA's buried pipeline network

BPA’s buried pipeline network runs across Cheshire, Staffordshire and Northamptonshire and other counties of England.  the company manages the network of buried high-pressure fuel pipelines that play an important role in keeping the UK moving. While these buried pipelines are safely underground and operate out of sight, they remain critical pieces of national infrastructure that require care and attention from anyone working near them.

One of the most important aspects of BPA’s work is maintaining strong relationships with the landowners, farmers and tenants who live and work above the pipeline network. Every year, the BPA Lands Team communicates directly with thousands of landowners, helping ensure they understand where pipelines are located and what steps should be taken before carrying out any works nearby.

Many routine farming and land management activities can be undertaken safely, but certain operations require additional planning and consultation. Activities such as fencing, ditching, drainage work, excavations, tree planting and construction projects all have the potential to impact buried pipelines if the correct procedures are not followed. In some locations, pipelines may be less than one metre below the surface, making it essential that anyone planning work knows exactly what lies beneath the ground before starting.

The good news is that help is readily available. BPA provides free advice and support to landowners and contractors planning work near its pipelines. The team can identify and mark the exact pipeline location, explain safe working requirements and, where necessary, provide on-site supervision to help ensure activities are carried out safely.

The message is simple: if you are planning any work near a BPA pipeline, contact the team before you start. Early engagement helps prevent damage, protects people and avoids unnecessary delays. It also helps safeguard the environment and ensures the continued safe operation of infrastructure that supplies fuel to homes, businesses, airports and transport networks across the country.

BPA’s Know What’s Below website was developed specifically to support landowners and tenants along the pipeline network. Through regular communications, guidance and direct support, the campaign helps raise awareness and encourages safe working practices around buried pipelines. This proactive approach has contributed to improved engagement with landowners and a reduction in unauthorised activities near the network.

If you’re planning work near a pipeline, don’t guess – know what’s below. Contact BPA’s Landowner Services team on 0800 585 387 for advice and support before work begins. Working together, we can help keep people safe, protect the environment and ensure vital pipeline infrastructure continues to operate safely for generations to come.

If you are an existing or new landowner along BPA’s pipeline network you can also keep your details up to date by clicking here.

/by BPA Management
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Keeping Watch from Above: How BPA Monitors Pipelines to Protect Pipelines and People

Marker post to help BPA Monitor pipelines from above

Every two weeks, BPA takes to the skies to monitor their pipeline network to ensure the continued safety and integrity of the network. Covering an impressive 800 miles, BPA’s experienced contractors conduct aerial patrols along the entire route — a key part of our ongoing commitment to protecting the pipeline, the people living and working nearby, and the environment.

Why We Patrol the Pipeline

These regular flights to monitor the pipeline network serve an essential purpose. From the air, our wider team can spot early signs of potential risks or issues that might not be visible from the ground. They’re trained to look out for:

  • Unauthorised works — such as digging, construction, or development near the pipeline without proper permission.
  • Activities that could pose a safety threat — to the pipeline, the public, or the surrounding environment.
  • Changes along the route — including land movement, erosion, or other environmental factors that could affect the pipeline’s integrity.

By catching these issues early, BPA’s Lands team can respond quickly — often before a problem even develops.

Supporting Landowners and Communities

We understand that landowners and developers may need to carry out work near a pipeline from time to time. That’s why the BPA Lands Team is always available to offer expert advice and support. Whether you’re planning groundwork, fencing, planting, or construction, our team can help ensure your project proceeds safely and in full compliance with regulations.

Our goal is simple: to keep everyone informed and to maintain a safe environment for all.  We also have a team who regularly walk sections of the pipeline to meet with landowners to discuss any questions, concerns or issues they may have as well as to inform them of any works they BPA may need to undertake in the area.

Working Together for Safety

Pipeline safety is a shared responsibility — and cooperation between BPA and landowners plays a huge role in achieving it. If you’re ever unsure whether your planned work might affect a pipeline, or if you spot anything unusual near one, we encourage you to get in touch.

Contact the BPA Lands Team today on 0800 585 387 with any questions or concerns — we’re here to help.

/by BPA Management
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ADVICE FOR FENCING NEAR BURIED PIPELINES: AN IMPORTANT REMINDER FOR FARMERS

Advice for fencing near to buried pipelines

Fences are an essential part of managing land — keeping livestock safe, marking boundaries, and protecting crops. Here we outline advice for fencing near buried pressure pipelines as setting fence posts in the wrong place can have serious consequences for your safety, your livelihood, and the environment.

Why Fencing Near Pipelines is Risky

High-pressure pipelines often run silently and invisibly beneath farmland, carrying fuel, oil, gas or other products. Striking or damaging a pipeline while digging post holes can lead to:

  • Dangerous leaks or explosions
  • Severe injury or loss of life
  • Costly damage and legal consequences
  • Environmental harm

Even a small scrape to the pipeline coating can cause corrosion over time, leading to future failures.

Know What’s Below Before You Dig

Pipeline routes are often marked by posts or signs along field edges, but they can be missed if vegetation has grown over them or markers have been moved. It is also important to note that pipelines do not necessarily run in straight lines between marker posts.  That’s why it’s vital to:

  1. Look for pipeline markers before you start.
  2. Check your farm maps, property plans or contacts form pipeline operators for pipeline easements.
  3. Line Search Before You Dig — contact the Lands Team at BPA before you dig or if you are unsure of the pipeline operator use the free on-line search tool https://lsbud.co.uk to help identify underground utilities.
  4. Before undertaking any works near to buried pipelines, contact the pipeline operator if you’re not sure. They can confirm the pipeline’s location and help plan safe work.

At BPA we write to landowners every year to remind them of the pipelines, what to do if they need to undertake works as well as provide our contact information should landowners have any questions or concerns.

Working Together for Safety

Pipeline operators want to work with landowners to keep farming operations safe and productive. If a fence needs to cross a pipeline route, they can often provide:

  • Farm visits to mark out the exact location of the pipeline
  • Provide safe digging instructions
  • Provide on-site supervision during work

This helps avoid accidents and keeps you, your workers, and your land safe.

Your Checklist Before Installing a Fence

✅ Identify any pipelines on your land.
✅ Contact the pipeline operator if planning to fence within 50m of the pipeline.
✅ Follow all safety instructions and agreements for working near the pipeline.
✅ Never guess — always check.

For more information on what to do if ditching or fencing, download a copy of BPA’s ditching and fencing booklet by clicking here.

Final Thought:
Pipelines and farming can coexist safely — but only if we take the time to confirm what’s below before putting a post in the ground. A quick phone call now can prevent a costly or even life-threatening accident later.

When in doubt, call the pipeline operator. Your safety, your livelihood, and your land depend on it.

/by BPA Management
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Understanding Depth of Cover: Why It Matters to Landowners

Understanding the importance of depth of cover for buried pipelines

As a landowner with a pipeline running beneath your property, you may have heard the term “depth of cover” mentioned in a recent letter from us or from inspections or maintenance discussions. But what exactly does it mean—and why is it important to you?

At the British Pipeline Agency (BPA), we’re committed to promoting safety, transparency, and collaboration with landowners. This article explains what depth of cover is, why it’s critical, and the practical steps you can take to protect both your land and the essential infrastructure beneath it.

What is Depth of Cover?

The depth of cover refers to the amount of soil (or other material) between the ground surface and the top of the pipeline. It’s a key factor in ensuring the protection of pipelines from accidental damage, environmental conditions, and surface activities such as farming or construction.

For most buried pipelines, the ideal depth of cover varies depending on factors like land use, pipe diameter, and regulatory requirements—but it typically ranges from 0.9 to 1.2 metres.

Why Depth of Cover Matters

  1. Safety First
    Inadequate depth of cover increases the risk of third-party damage, especially from heavy machinery or deep ploughing. This can lead to serious safety hazards, including pipeline ruptures or leaks.
  2. Environmental Protection
    Pipelines transport fuels that, if released, could have environmental consequences. Sufficient cover helps safeguard the pipe from accidental impact and reduces the risk of a spill.
  3. Compliance and Liability
    Under UK regulations, both pipeline operators and landowners have responsibilities. If activities on the land disturb or reduce the pipeline’s cover, it could lead to non-compliance, requiring remedial work—or worse, resulting in damage for which liability may be shared.
  4. Long-Term Land Value
    Maintaining proper cover ensures that your land remains compliant and safe for future sale, lease, or agricultural use. It helps avoid costly repairs or restrictions that could affect your land’s usability or value.

Advice for Landowners

If you have a pipeline on your property, here are key actions to follow:

  • Know Where the Pipeline Is
    Familiarise yourself with the exact location and route of the pipeline. BPA can help provide maps and markers.
  • Check Before You Dig
    Always contact BPA before starting any excavation, fencing, tree planting, or construction work. Even seemingly minor activities can affect cover depth.
  • Report Erosion or Changes in Land Use
    Inform BPA if you notice soil erosion, flooding, or recent agricultural changes that may have reduced the pipeline’s cover.
  • Avoid Deep Cultivation Over Pipelines
    Avoid subsoiling, mole draining, or ploughing deeper than allowed near pipeline corridors. BPA can advise on safe depth limits.
  • Allow Access for Inspections
    Regular inspections and line walking helps us ensure the pipeline remains safe and well-covered. Your cooperation is crucial in maintaining integrity and safety

Working Together for Safety

At BPA, we value the role landowners play in helping protect vital pipeline infrastructure. By understanding and monitoring depth of cover, we can work together to ensure safety, environmental stewardship, and uninterrupted service.

If you’re ever unsure or need guidance, our team is here to help. You can reach out to our Lands Team for advice tailored to your property and activities.

/by BPA Management
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LOOK OUT FOR THIS YEAR’S LANDOWNER LETTERS FROM BPA

BPA's letters

It’s that time of the year again, when BPA writes to the 2000+ landowners and tenants asking them to respond to our letter to ensure all contact details are up to date and correct.

This year we have segmented our mailing to particularly target those we have not heard from for more than a year.  It is critically important to respond to the letter as this helps us contact the landowner in the event of an emergency, should there be a leak or if the pipeline need repair or replacement.  It is also needed should we need to contact the landowner to access the pipeline for maintenance or inspection purposes.

It also offers BPA’s Lands Team an opportunity to reach out and remind people of the do’s and don’ts around buried high pressure pipelines.  This year we have also put a greater emphasis on the ‘Do not dig!’ message. This is particularly important as digging or undertaking other kinds of activities in the vicinity of a pipeline could lead to prosecution or ultimately a serious accident.

Details of what can and can’t be done near to buried high pressure pipelines can be found in the do’s and don’ts section of the website.  This advice is particularly pertinent to landowners who have a reduced depth of cover over their pipelines.

Pipelines do not always follow straight lines between marker posts or across fields and often they are covered by a variable amount of soil.  The depth of cover can vary due to undulating land but also erosion from wind or water.  We continually monitor this and our technicians regularly visit sites to take depth readings.

This year we have written to landowners who may have a reduced depth of cover on parts of their land and have clearly marked on maps where this may be the case.  To allow us to further monitor these sites we have asked targeted landowners to take a look at the map with the site location on and complete a few questions and return in the envelope provided.

This helps us better understand where remedial work needs to be undertaken. Work is ongoing on rectifying reduced soil cover sites and over the last few years, we have carried out a diversion and installed slabs and numerous culverts to rectify reduced soil cover issues.

To help incentivise responses we are encouraging landowners to return their questionnaire to us as soon as possible.  Those who return their questionnaire before the end of June will be automatically be entered in a competition to win a deluxe hamper worth more than £100!

So, please keep a watch out for the letters from BPA and please be sure to respond and return them to us so that we can keep all your details up to date and correct.  If you need to contact our lands team outside of this, please feel free to drop us an email at lands@bpoa.co.uk or give us a call on 0800 585 387.

/by BPA Management
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Reporting Suspicious Activities Near Buried High-Pressure Pipelines: A Guide to Community Safety

Reporting Suspicious Activities Near Buried High-Pressure Pipelines

High-pressure pipelines are vital to transporting natural gas, oil, and other critical resources that power our homes, industries, and vehicles. These pipelines often run underground, hidden from view but essential to our daily lives. While they are built to be safe and resilient, their importance makes them potential targets for damage, vandalism, or even product theft.

Identifying and reporting suspicious activities near these pipelines can help ensure safety, environmental protection, and the integrity of our energy infrastructure.

Why is Monitoring Pipeline Safety Critical?

Buried high-pressure pipelines carry highly pressurized and potentially hazardous materials. A breach or damage to these pipelines can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Explosions or Fires: The release of flammable gases or liquids can ignite, leading to catastrophic events.
  • Environmental Damage: Spills can contaminate soil, waterways, and ecosystems, causing long-term harm.
  • Service Disruption: Damage can interrupt the supply of critical resources, impacting businesses and households.
  • Safety Risks: Nearby communities and workers may face serious health and safety hazards.

Because of these risks, communities play a crucial role in safeguarding pipeline infrastructure by staying vigilant and reporting unusual or suspicious activities.

Recognising Suspicious Activities

Here are some examples of what might be considered suspicious near buried high-pressure pipelines:

  1. Unauthorized Digging: Excavations or digging near pipeline markers without visible permits or official signage.
  2. Unmarked Vehicles or Equipment: Vehicles parked or equipment operating near pipeline sites without logos or identifiers.
  3. Unusual Behaviour: Individuals loitering or taking photos near pipeline markers, pumping stations, or related facilities without a clear reason.
  4. Tampering with Equipment: Attempts to open valves, break locks, or interfere with monitoring systems.
  5. Unauthorised Construction: Projects or installations that seem to be encroaching on a pipeline’s right-of-way.

If you observe any of these activities, it is better to err on the side of caution and report your concerns.

Steps to Report Suspicious Activities

If you notice anything unusual or concerning near a pipeline, follow these steps:

  1. Note Key Details: Record the location, time, and description of the activity or individuals involved. Take note of vehicle license plates or distinguishing features if safe to do so.
  2. Avoid Direct Confrontation: Do not approach individuals or attempt to intervene. Your safety is the priority.
  3. Contact Authorities: Call your local emergency services or the pipeline operator’s emergency hotline, which is usually listed on nearby pipeline markers.
  4. Follow Up: If required, provide additional information to authorities or pipeline representatives to assist with their investigation.

Understanding Pipeline Markers

Pipeline markers are placed to indicate the presence of buried pipelines and often include the operator’s contact information and an emergency number. These markers do not indicate the exact location or depth of the pipeline but serve as a reminder to exercise caution in the area.

Protecting Pipelines is a Shared Responsibility

Maintaining the safety and security of buried high-pressure pipelines is not just the responsibility of pipeline operators—it’s a collective effort. By staying alert to suspicious activities and acting promptly to report them, you play a critical role in preventing accidents and protecting both people and the environment.

If you’re unsure who to contact, start with the number on the pipeline marker, BPA’s lands team on 0800 585 387 or call your local authorities. Together, we can ensure that these vital resources remain secure and reliable for generations to come.

/by BPA Management
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DO NOT DIG NEAR BURIED PIPELINES UNTIL YOU KNOW WHAT’S BELOW

Don't dig near to buried pipelines

Each year we write to the landowners and tenants along our pipeline network to remind them to not undertake any digging, excavation, fencing, ditching, mole ploughing or the installation of land drainage within 50m of the buried pipeline without prior authorisation from BPA.

We recognise that these activities are necessary, however for critical safety reasons landowners are required to liaise with us as the pipeline operator first. To assist landowners, we have a dedicated ‘Landowner Services’ team who are available to provide support and advice over the phone or visit the site to free of charge.

If you are looking to undertake works near to buried pipelines, BPA’s lands team ask that those who are looking to undertake any works within 50 metres of a buried BPA pipeline follow the following guidelines:

  • Give a minimum of 7 days-notice before works begin. This will ensure we can fully support you with your proposed activities.
  • Never assume you can go ahead unless consent is given. BPA’s team is on hand to support your work, however works should not begin until permission is granted
  • Be aware that pipeline depths vary across the country and can often be found only a metre below the surface, they are also seldom protected with concrete slabs.
  • Care should be taken when looking to clear ditches as the pipeline depths vary and may even not have protective cover in places
  • Pipelines do not always run in straight lines between marker posts. Although posts are used to mark the location of a pipeline at a field boundary, not all pipelines run in straight lines between posts. BPA’s team is available to help mark out the exact location.
  • Be aware that other infrastructure, such as cables, can be buried shallower than the pipeline. There are often other potentially hazardous or safety critical infrastructure buried along the pipeline lengths, these can be found at even shallower depth to the pipeline.

It is also the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees and contractors operating on their land comply with regulations as damage to pipelines can pose a significant risk to life, as well as potentially serious environmental damage if a product is released.

Landowners who do not comply with the requirements could also be prosecuted by the HSE as Regulation 15 of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act states: “No person shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to dangers to persons”.  It is the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees, contractors and others operating on their land comply with regulations.

As well as potential prosecution, damage to the pipeline could lead to environmental harm through serious pollution of soil, water, and the atmosphere, which is likely to lead to prosecution by the Environment Agency. The cost of repair and subsequent clean-up is likely to exceed £1m.

To support landowners needing to undertake works near to buried pipelines, BPA’s Landowner Services team is on hand and able to support landowners regarding any questions or queries that they may have.  Our team is available 24/7 to offer advice and support landowners.  Contact us via the website or call 0800 585 387.

/by BPA Management
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Line Walking Surveys for Buried Pipelines

Line walking BPA's pipeline network

Throughout the year, the BPA Lands Team constantly monitors and inspects our buried pipeline network to identify any potential threats or problems along the route. Among the various inspection methods, line walking surveys are perhaps the best at detecting issues that might not be apparent through other monitoring techniques.

What is a Line Walking Survey?

A line walking survey involves physically walking along the route of a buried pipeline to establish the condition of the surrounding environment. This practice is particularly effective in identifying localised issues such as ground movement, shallow cover, or encroachments that could pose a threat to the pipeline’s integrity.

While other survey methods like aerial or overline inspections provide a broader overview, line walking allows us to undertake a close-up assessment that can reveal subtle changes and potential hazards that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Legislative and Standard Requirements

In the UK, the maintenance of pipelines is governed by the Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996 (PSR), which, while not specifying line walking as a mandatory practice, emphasises the need for regular maintenance and inspection to ensure pipeline safety.

Regulation 13 of the PSR mandates that pipelines be maintained in an efficient state and in good repair. This regulation underscores the importance of regular inspections, including line walking surveys, to validate and maintain pipeline safety.

Industry standards also provide guidance on the frequency and conduct of line walking surveys. It is recommended that pipeline routes be walked at least once every four years unless a risks require a different frequency. Similarly, it is important for regular inspections to identify factors that could affect pipeline safety, such as third-party activities, ground movement, or environmental changes.

Risk-Based Approach to Line Walking

Given the varying environments through which pipelines traverse, a one-size-fits-all approach to line walking is not practical. Instead, a risk-based approach is undertaken where the frequency and focus of line walks are tailored to the specific risks associated with different sections of the pipeline. This approach considers factors such as the potential for ground movement, the proximity of the pipeline to populated areas, and the likelihood of third-party interference.

For example, pipelines located in areas prone to flooding, ground erosion, or significant human activity may require more frequent inspections. Conversely, sections of the pipeline in stable, less populated areas might be inspected less frequently. The risk-based approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, with more attention given to high-risk areas that are more likely to experience issues.

Our inspectors are equipped with the necessary tools to document their findings, such as GPS devices, cameras, and notebooks. They also have clear guidelines on what to look for, including the condition of marker posts, signs of ground movement, and any new developments in the area that could impact the pipeline.

What we Look For During a Line Walk

During a line walking survey, inspectors focus on identifying any signs of degradation or potential threats to the pipeline. Key areas of concern include:

  • Marker Posts and Cathodic Protection (CP) Test Posts: These are critical for maintaining pipeline integrity. Inspectors ensure that they are intact and functioning properly.
  • Signs of Ground Movement or Shallow Cover: Changes in the landscape, such as soil erosion or ground subsidence, can reduce the cover over the pipeline, increasing the risk of damage.
  • New Developments: Construction activities or new buildings near the pipeline can pose a threat if not properly managed. Inspectors should be vigilant for any changes in land use.
  • Third-Party Activities: Unauthorized activities near the pipeline, such as excavation or construction, are a significant risk and should be reported immediately.

Responding to Immediate Threats

If an immediate threat to the pipeline is identified during a line walk, our inspectors will take prompt action. This could involve stopping any nearby construction activities or marking the area for further investigation. Aquick response is crucial to preventing potential accidents or damage.

Post-Survey Actions

After completing a line walk, the team documents all findings comprehensively. This includes recording any issues identified, actions taken, and recommendations for further inspection or repair. Proper documentation ensures that all concerns are addressed and provides a record for future reference.

Line walking surveys are a vital component of pipeline integrity management. By allowing for close-up inspection of the pipeline and its environment, they help identify potential threats before they become critical issues.

If you see a member of BPA’s Lands Team undertaking a line survey on land near you, feel free to ask them any questions or concerns you may have about the buried pipeline network in your area.  Alternatively, contact the BPA’s lands team by clicking here.

/by BPA Management
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DON’T DIG NEAR TO BURIED PIPELINES

With the unseasonably wet weather the UK has experienced this year, here we remind landowners “Don’t dig near to pipelines” without permission from the pipeline operator.

Britain has more than 27,000 km of buried pipelines used to transport a range of products at high pressures of up to 100 bar. This includes flammable and explosive products such as oil, natural gas, ethylene, and petroleum, as well as less obviously hazardous materials such as water.

Prior to working in the vicinity of high-pressure pipelines, landowners are required to contact the pipeline operator. BPA asks its landowners that they are notified for any works within 50m of a pipeline, particularly if the pipeline is known to be at a shallow depth.

When we are contacted we can provide safety guidance and advice including coming out and marking out the pipeline to enable the farmer or landowner to carry on with the required activities.

Contractors, employees and temporary staff working on the land also need to be informed of the pipeline locations to discuss and agree on the necessary precautions before starting work.

Agricultural activities that pose a significant risk to pipelines include the installation or repair of drainage pipes or clearing ditches near buried pipelines. Such activities often require heavy machinery and can easily excavate close to the pipeline’s nominal depth of 1m.

To prevent risks to landowner and pipeline, anyone planning works within 3 metres of a our buried pipelines must obtain permission from BPA. This is not to prevent the works, but simply to ensure they are undertaken safely.

Pipeline marker posts

The locations of pipelines are normally indicated by marker posts at the edges of fields; however, marker posts can be accidentally moved or damaged, and pipelines may not run in a straight line between posts and aerial markers.

Who to contact for buried pipelines

Pipeline marker post

The depth of the pipeline’s cover may also be reduced in parts, so contact our lands team so we can advise on the exact location of the pipeline. We can arrange to visit the site, trace and accurately mark out the exact pipeline location, and provide guidance on safe working while near to the pipeline.

To help ensure the best and safest outcomes for all, farmers or contractors are advised not to undertake any works within three metres of a buried pipeline. If planning works, please:

  • Never assume the route or depth of pipeline.
  • Give pipeline operators sufficient notice before works begin.
  • Do not proceed with works until consent is given by the pipeline operator.
  • Be aware that pipeline depths vary and can often be found less than 1m below the surface.
  • Remember pipelines do not always run in straight lines between marker posts.
  • Be aware that other safety-critical infrastructure, such as cables, valve chambers and standpipes, can be buried along the pipeline lengths; these can be found at even shallower depths than the pipeline.

Landowner Responsibilities

Damage to pipelines can pose a significant risk to life, as well as potentially serious environmental damage if a product is released. It can also lead to prosecution by the HSE as Regulation 15 of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act states: “No person shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to dangers to persons”.

Working near pipelines without taking the correct precautions can have serious consequences and potential prosecution.  It is the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees, contractors and others operating on their land comply with regulations.

As well as potential prosecution, damage to the pipeline could lead to environmental harm through serious pollution of soil, water, and the atmosphere, which is likely to lead to prosecution by the Environment Agency. The cost of repair and subsequent clean-up is likely to exceed £1m.

If in doubt, contact BPA as we are here to help. More information and videos on what to do and not do near to buried pipelines can be found here.

/by BPA Management
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BE AWARE OF BURIED PIPELINES WHEN EXTENDING HOMES

Be aware of pipelines when developing homes

Since 2015, homeowners have been able to benefit from ‘Permitted Development Rights’ that allow them to carry out certain building works on a property without the need for local authority planning permission or ‘approval’ from neighbours. However, home owners should be aware of buried pipelines when developing homes.

The rules generally apply to single-storey side or rear extensions, loft conversions, front porches, double storey extensions, outbuildings, pools, solar panels, skylights of dormer windows and new windows or doors. However, extensions beyond a certain size or height are still bound by the relevant Neighbour Consultation Scheme and the Local Authority will still need to be informed.

However, before a landowner carries out an extension, lays a driveway or constructs an outbuilding or pool they still need to consider whether they are within a pipeline easement and, if so, need to inform and seek permission from the pipeline operator. Without doing so, undertaking works within a pipeline’s easement is not only in breach of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act (1996) but also poses a serious safety risk to the homeowner, contractor as well as the environment.

Please note that crucially, the planning system is separate from and does not override the existing rules and requirements as detailed within the existing pipeline lease.

To protect the pipeline network and ensure that there are no breaches of the Pipeline Safety Regulations (1996), BPA not only monitors the pipelines remotely but undertakes bi-weekly helicopter patrols, regular line-walking and visual surveys. Homeowners who live within the easement of a pipeline also receive an annual letter reminding them of the pipeline and the regulations and notifications required if a homeowner is proposing to carrying out works in a pipeline’s vicinity.

It is therefore important that landowners respond to BPA’s annual letter to ensure that their contact details are up to date so both parties can easily be informed, should works need to be carried out near to pipelines.

If you are planning to extend or alter your home or garden under permitted development rights (or via the conventional planning application route), to prevent potential damage to buried high pressure pipelines always contact the pipeline operator in advance of works (and ideally the application) so they can advise you of good practices, locate and mark out the pipeline and ultimately supervise works if required.

If you do construct a building over the pipeline or within it’s easement, you are not only endangering your own life in the process, but the building will ultimately also need to be removed, at your cost.

We hope this information is useful regarding permitted development and pipelines. If in doubt, contact a member of BPA’s lands team and we will be happy to assist.

/by BPA Management