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.
