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8 January 2026

National Gas to invest £870 million in Cambridgeshire and surrounding counties

National Gas to invest £870 million in Cambridgeshire and surrounding counties

National Gas, the owner and operator of Britain’s gas network, is investing £870 million in the East of England over the next five years, creating 250 more jobs, and safeguarding 300.

Peterborough is set to significantly benefit from this investment, as the home of the East Region’s headquarters. The office at Fleet House on Cygnet Road serves as the central operational hub for National Gas’s activities in the East of England, which includes, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Kent, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, and Suffolk. 

The £870 million allocated to the East Region is part of a £3.2 billion funding package approved by Ofgem (more information about RIIO-GT3). This funding will support critical infrastructure projects in the East of England such as updating the control systems at King’s Lynn and Diss’ compressor stations. These projects are expected to involve local contractors, helping to boost employment opportunities and drive growth in the local area. 

Peterborough's two new compressors are fully installed and operational with a third compressor currently in the early stages of construction. Following National Gas’s largest investment in a site to-date these compressors are compatible with both methane and blends of hydrogen. Compressors, which are industrial jet engines, are the part of the National Transmission System (NTS) that push 99% of Britain’s gas through 5,000 miles of high-pressure pipelines from Scotland to Devon, and Wales to Norfolk. 

Speaking about the office opening and investment announcement, Nick Sides, National Gas’s Regional Director for the East Region, said:

“National Gas is placing our operational presence right where it matters most - within the communities we serve. Peterborough’s compressors are the powerhouse of Britain’s gas network, and establishing our regional headquarters here signals our commitment to driving growth across the East of England.

“Our local-first approach will not only deliver greater efficiency in maintaining critical assets but also forge strong partnerships with local businesses and contractors in new infrastructure projects. We’re creating jobs, boosting supply chains, and securing Britain’s energy for generations to come."

The announcement was made during a visit by Chris McDonald, Minister for Industry in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and local MPs Andrew Pakes (Peterborough) and Sam Carling (North West Cambridgeshire). They officially opened the new National Gas East Region office in Peterborough and visited the Peterborough Compressor Station. 

Speaking at the office opening, Minister for Industry Chris McDonald, said: 

“Upgrading our energy infrastructure is essential to continue powering Britain as we transition to homegrown, clean energy. 

“This investment from National Gas will create good jobs, support local businesses and drive growth for communities in the East of England, and across the UK, while boosting our energy security.”

Peterborough was one of National Gas’s three compressor sites to receive a share of a £350 million investment announced in 2025. 

Sam Carling, Member of Parliament for North West Cambridgeshire, said:

“As the local Member of Parliament, I warmly welcome the decision by National Gas to choose Peterborough as the home of its East Region operations. By investing in the local supply chain, this funding will accelerate growth, create jobs, and strengthen Britain’s energy security while safeguarding our industrial competitiveness.”

Andrew Pakes, Member of Parliament for Peterborough, said:

“In addition to major funding announced last year, this further £870 million investment from National Gas will create hundreds of next generation clean energy jobs right here in our region. This significant investment will firmly position Peterborough as the engine behind the Government’s mission to make Britain a Clean Energy Superpower. It will open up opportunities through apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and skilled employment with National Gas and many other businesses across the local economy.”

Graduates and apprentices are set to benefit from the additional funding to the region. 

Speaking about what the investment means for her future, local National Gas apprentice Matilda Gent, said:

"Since joining National Gas as an apprentice, I’ve had incredible opportunities to learn and thrive. Growing up in Bacton and now working at the gas terminal, it’s exciting to see the company investing in the future, mine included. I love being part of an organisation that powers Britain.”

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