Hebden Bridge gas works due to complete on time

A major gas pipe upgrade project in central Hebden Bridge is nearing completion on schedule.

Northern Gas Networks is investing around £25,000 to replace 210m of ageing metal gas pipe with a more durable plastic version on Sandy Gate, Birchcliffe Road and Birchfield Villas.

The work is being carried out by engineers from Enterprise on behalf of the area's gas pipeline owner.

The project got underway in mid-July and is on course to be completed at the end of this week (w/c 15 August).

A road closure is in place to allow engineers to work safely at the junction of Sandy Gate with Birchcliffe Road and Marlborough Street. A diversion is in operation via the Old Town.

Temporary two-way traffic lights have been used along Birchcliffe Road to allow traffic to safely pass where engineers are working.

The scheme is part of Northern Gas Networks' £63 million annual investment programme designed to enhance the safety and reliability of the gas network across the north of England by replacing all metal gas pipes within 30 metres of property within 30 years.

Northern Gas Networks would like to apologise for any inconvenience. Area Operations Manager Mick Hewett said "This work is due to complete on time and our teams have worked hard to make this happen. We know no-one likes to have to change their routine because of road-works but the work was essential and we minimised disruption wherever possible."

Mick added: "Once the work is complete, we won't need to come back for some time. The new plastic pipe we are laying is very durable and, if undisturbed, will require little or no maintenance over its expected lifespan of around 80 years."

Gas customers were notified by letter prior to work starting and senior engineers are available on-site to provide regular updates to customers as the work reaches its conclusion.