The North of England’s gas distributer, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), is investing around £320,000 to upgrade ageing metal gas mains in Nevilles Cross Bank, A690, Durham.

The major project to replace nearly a kilometre of pipe will take place in two phases, the first due to begin on Tuesday 29 March and the second later this year on Monday 27 June.

The works are part of NGNs’ ongoing replacement of infrastructure in the region and will involve replacing the existing metallic gas main with more durable plastic pipes to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

Phase one of the scheme, which is expected to take two weeks to complete, has been planned to take place during the Easter break to ensure disruption to motorists is minimal.

In order to carry out this essential work safely and efficiently, it will be necessary to implement two-way traffic lights on Nevilles Cross Bank.

Shops and businesses will remain open as usual.

Phase two at Nevilles Cross Bank is due to begin on Monday 27 June 2016.  The final part of the scheme is expected to last 12 weeks, but again, has been planned to coincide with the school summer holidays to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

John Richardson, Customer Operations Area Manager, Northern Gas Networks said: “We have worked closely with Durham County Council to plan these works so that they take place during the quieter school holiday period to minimise disruption to motorists and local residents.

“We would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience this essential work may cause and thank members of the public for their understanding.”

For further information about the project please contact NGN’s Customer Care team on 0800 040 7766, option 7 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.