November 13, 2015 – 3pm

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks (NGN) are continuing to work to restore gas supplies to properties in the Delves Lane and Castle Dene areas of Consett, County Durham.

The incident occurred when water from a damaged water main entered the gas mains.

Around 780 properties are currently affected in Birch Grove, Briardale, Castledene Road, College View, Delves Lane, Delves Terrace, Douai Drive, Greencroft Road, Greenways, Greenways Court, Iveston Road, Ladywell Road, Lumley Drive, Meadow View, Pixley Dell and Woody Close.

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks are continuing to work to gain access to the remaining 18 properties so that they can turn off the gas at the meter and work can begin in remove water from the gas main.

John Richardson, customer operations area manager, Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to thank residents for their continued patience while we work to restore the gas supplies to customers in the Delves Lane and Castle Dene areas.

“Our priority is to get customers back on gas as quickly as possible and we’re doing everything we can to ensure people have access to heating, hot water and food in the meantime.  Electric hot plates and heaters are available for residents at the Village Hall on Delves Lane (DH8 7BH) and we’re organised oil heaters for elderly and vulnerable customers.

“Free hot food is available from a catering van outside the Village Hall and also from the Golden Fish Inn on Delves Lane.  You can pick up food vouchers at the Village Hall. We’ve also arranged access to complimentary showering facilities at Belle Vue Leisure Centre on Ashdale Road, Consett, DH8 6LZ. Shower facilities are available to use on weekdays between 06:30 – 21:30, on Saturday from 07:00 – 17:00 and Sunday from 07:00 – 19:00. Please mention on arrival that you have been affected by the current loss of gas supply.”

Alternative accommodation is available for vulnerable customers.  If you are elderly, vulnerable or in need of support, or know anyone who is, please contact NGN’s Customer Care team.

Anyone with questions or concerns is advised to speak to an engineer on site, visit the Village Hall or contact NGN’s Customer Care team on 0800 040 7766 option 7.

Regular updates will also be available at northerngasnetworks.co.uk and on Twitter @NGNgas and Facebook.com/northerngasnetworks.

Anyone who smells gas should call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.