Northern Gas Networks has begun essential underground pipe replacement work in the Selbourne Road area of Dewsbury.

The £120,000 scheme is to replace old metal gains mains with more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a reliable service for local homes and businesses.

Around 850 metres of pipe will be replaced in total, with engineers working on a number of streets just off Selbourne Road. Work is now underway on Station Road, before moving onto Brewery Lane, Slaithewaite Road and concluding on Thornhill Road by the end of September.

Temporary traffic lights are being used to control the flow of traffic during the work, but there will be no road closures. Temporary bus stops will be erected during the project, where the work prevents access to usual stops.

Wayne Fisher, Customer Operations Area Manager for Northern Gas Networks said: “This work will ensure a reliable gas service for families and businesses in the area for many years to come. The old metal pipes have reached the end of their useful life, and need replacing with modern, plastic versions, which are more durable.

“We will be controlling the traffic lights throughout the day, to ensure traffic flows as efficiently as possible. We’d like to thank people for their patience, while we carry out this essential work.”

The scheme is part of an ongoing programme by Northern Gas Networks to renew the region’s underground pipe network.

Customers with questions about the work can contact Northern Gas Networks’ Customer Care team on 0845 634 0508, option 7. The team is available between 8am and 10pm Monday to Friday, and 9am and 5.30pm on Saturday. The line is in operation 24 hours a day.