The north of England’s gas distributer, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), is investing over £367,000 to upgrade ageing metal gas mains at The Firs, Alston.

The major project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the area’s gas infrastructure and will involve replacing over 2.8km of existing metal gas mains with more durable plastic pipes to ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Alston for years to come.

The 17-week project, which is due to start on Wednesday 24 May 2017, has been carefully planned in conjunction with Cumbria County 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 Raise Bank for around four weeks with effect from Wednesday 24 May. There will also be road closure on Kings Lane, however, access can still be made via the alternative entrance.

It’s expected these works may cause some delays to journey times, so motorists are advised to leave extra time for travel during the closures. 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.

A customer drop-in meeting will be held at the Town Hall, Front Street, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3RF between 3-5pm on Wednesday 24 May 2017, where customers can drop in to find out more about the works and we can answer any questions or concerns. 

Matty McBride, Customer Operations Area Manager for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have worked closely with Cumbria 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.”

The Firs project will be registered as a Considerate Constructors Scheme site, following key principles to ensure minimal impact on the environment, customers and the community and observing the highest standards of safety.

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.