Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Grey Street, Newcastle.

The ageing main has undergone several recent emergency repairs, so has now been prioritised for urgent replacement, where the existing metal pipes will be replaced with more durable plastic ones.

Work began at the end of April to replace the gas pipes at the top of Grey Street, in the pedestrian zone near Monument outside of Pret a Manger, and this section is now nearing completion.

Additional work at the junction of Grey Street and Mosley Street is also being carried out at the same time, planned in close collaboration with Newcastle City Council.

In order for engineers to complete the work safely and efficiently, and to protect members of the public, it will now be necessary to introduce temporary traffic management during this phase.

Beginning on Monday 11 May, the junction of Grey Street and Mosley Street is closed in all directions with temporary traffic lights in place for two weeks.  Signs will be displayed for motorists and a fully signed diversion put in place.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the local community at this time, the work is being carried out exclusively in the street, observing strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and following health and safety guidance.

Richie Manuel, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these essential works. However, it is essential we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to Newcastle.

“NGN is continuing to carry out essential services whilst observing strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and following health and safety guidance during the Coronavirus outbreak.

“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

In line with UK Government guidance, NGN is continuing to carry out essential services including responding to gas emergencies, carrying out emergency repairs and undertaking critical maintenance activities, to ensure communities continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.

To ensure it can continue to deliver the highest standards of service, and to protect its colleagues, customers and our communities, NGN is suspending the majority of its planned work programme until further notice.

For further information about the work 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.