The North of England’s gas distributer, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), is investing around £30,000 to upgrade ageing metal gas mains at Ruswarp Lane, Whitby.

The essential project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the area’s gas infrastructure and will involve 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 in Whitby for years to come.

The two-week project, which is due to start on Tuesday 2 May 2017, has been carefully planned in conjunction with North Yorkshire County Council.

This essential work has been prioritised to take place now due to pressure problems in the area and the condition of the existing pipes.

Due to the location of the gas main and in order to carry out the works safely and efficiently, it will be necessary to carry out the works in two phases.

Phase one of the project will see temporary three-way traffic signals in place and a road closure introduced at the junction of Mayfield Road and St Andrew’s Road.

Starting on Thursday 11 May, phase two of the works will be carried out near the roundabout at the top of Mayfield Road where temporary two way traffic signals will be in place for the remainder of the project.

During this time there will be a signed diversion route in place for motorists to follow coming from Guisborough Road.

NGN will be manning the traffic management in place at all times to minimise congestion and delays.  However, it’s expected these works will cause extended journey times, so motorists are advised to leave extra time for travel during this time. NGN will endeavour to complete these works as soon as possible, and will provide updates on progress throughout the project.

Engineers will be working seven days a week to complete the scheme as quickly as possible and Customer Care Officers will be 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.

Robert Hope, Construction Services Area Manager for Northern Gas Networks said: “We have worked closely with North Yorkshire County Council to carefully plan these works and will be doing all we can to minimise disruption to customers.

“We will endeavour to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible and will keep customers updated as the work progresses.

“We would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience caused during these works and thank everyone for their patience and support while we carry out this essential upgrade.”

For further information about the project please contact NGN’s Customer Care team on 0800 040 7766, option 3 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.