The North of England’s gas distributor, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), will be investing £150,000 to upgrade the gas distribution network in and around the Skinner Street, Whitby area.

The project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and involves replacing approximately 650m of existing metal gas pipes with more durable plastic ones.  This will ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

The ageing metal gas main has required several repairs in recent years.  NGN has prioritised the pipe for replacement to minimise any inconvenience caused by future repairs.

The project has been carefully planned in conjunction with North Yorkshire County Council to minimise the impact caused.

Work will start on Monday 7 January 2019 and is scheduled to last approximately 9 weeks.  In order for works to be carried out safely and efficiently, during the first week of works, temporary traffic signals will be in situ on Skinner Street at the junction of Flowergate and there will be no left turn onto Flowergate.  Whilst these traffic signals are in place, a signed diversion route will be in place for road users.

In addition, it will be necessary to suspend parking on Skinner Street at various stages throughout the project.  Suspended parking will be staggered throughout the project to minimise any inconvenience caused.

NGN’s Customer Care Officers have been door-knocking local residents and businesses to make customers aware of the work, while on-site signage will advise motorists of the work taking place. Regular updates will also be available on NGN’s website northerngasnetworks.co.uk, Twitter @NGNgas and Facebook @northerngasnetworks.

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

Pete Knapton, Network Officer for Northern Gas Networks said: “We have been working closely with North Yorkshire County 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 everyone 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 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, seven days a week.