Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributer for the North of England, is due to carry out essential gas mains replacement works in the Hills Street area of Gateshead.

The major project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the area’s gas infrastructure and involves replacing over 160m of existing metal gas mains with more durable plastic pipes, to ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers for years to come.

The eight-week project, which is due to start on Monday 13 March 2017, has been carefully planned in conjunction with Gateshead Council.

Due to the location of the gas main and in order to carry out the works safely and efficiently, it will be necessary to introduce a road closure on Wellington Street for five weeks from Monday 27 March 2017. A clearly signed diversion route will be in place during this time for motorists to follow.

Vehicles will not be able to access Wellington Street from the A184 Askew Road while the road closure is in place.  All traffic will be diverted along Askew Road and will need to turn left at the traffic lights, heading towards the Tyne Bridge.  Traffic will then be diverted along Half Moon Lane to access Wellington Street.

It’s expected these work will cause some delays to journey times, so motorists are advised to leave extra time for travel during the road closure. NGN will endeavour to complete these works as soon as possible, and will provide updates on progress throughout the project.

Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual.

NGN’s Customer Care Officers have been door-knocking local homes and businesses to make customers aware of the project, while on-site signage will advise motorists of the work taking place.

Laura McKernan, Stakeholder Manager for Northern Gas Networks said: “We have been working closely with the local council to carefully plan these works and will be doing all we can to minimise disruption to customers.

“We’d like to apologise for any inconvenience customers may encounter, and thank them for their support as we work to complete this project as safely and quickly as possible.”

For further information about the project please contact NGN’s Customer Care team on 0800 040 7766, option 7 or email customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects Carbon Monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.