Gas Mains work in Barnard Castle

Vital work to improve the gas mains network in Barnard Castle will get underway on February 12.

Engineers working on behalf of Northern Gas Networks need to replace about 170m of iron gas main with modern plastic pipe at a place known as The Scar.

The work will last about four weeks and will mean closing a 200m section of public footpath along the River Tees, immediately south of the footbridge. Short alternative pathways are available.

The Network Operations Director for Northern Gas Networks, Chris Gorman said: “This work is essential if we are to continue delivering gas safely and reliably to the people of Barnard Castle.

“The good news about our new plastic pipe is that it’s a much better material for gas mains and has a life span of about 80 years.

“We apologise for the inconvenience closing the footpath will cause. We’ll do everything we can to make sure the work is carried out and the footpath restored to its original condition as quickly as possible.”