The north of England’s gas distributer, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), is investing around £115,000 to upgrade the ageing gas mains in Stockton Road, Hartlepool.

This essential project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and will involve replacing 360m of existing metal gas mains with more durable plastic pipes to ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

The 10-week project, which is due to start on Monday 16 January 2017, has been carefully planned in conjunction with Hartlepool Borough Council.

In order to carry out the works safely and efficiently, temporary traffic management measures will be in place throughout the project.

Three-way traffic lights will be introduced on Oxford Road/ Oxford Street, Cornwall Street and Westbourne Road leading on to the B1277 Stockton Road. Works will progress north towards Stockton Road roundabout.

During this time, parking outside on the B1277 Stockton Road and some bus stops will be temporarily suspended, however access for residents and pedestrians will be maintained at all times.

The final phase of works will be undertaken at the roundabout where there will be three-way traffic lights in place on the approach, and on Stockton Road towards Burn Road. It’s likely the signals may result in extended travel times into Hartlepool town centre, so motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys.

Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual throughout the project.

NGN’s Customer Care Officers have been door-knocking local homes and businesses to make customers aware of the project, while on-site signage will advise motorists of the work taking place.

Stuart Armin, Construction Services Area Manager for Northern Gas Networks said: “We have been working closely with the local council to carefully plan these works and will be doing all we can to minimise disruption to customers.

“We’d like to apologise for any inconvenience customers may encounter, and thank them for their support as we work to complete this project as safely and quickly as possible.”

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.