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 Norton, Stockton-on-Tees.

The ageing metal pipework is now being replaced by new, more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers.

The work will start on Saturday 24th April 2021 and is expected to last for four days. It has been planned in collaboration with Stockton Borough Council.

NGN is prioritising work in line with Government Covid-19 guidance and is carrying out planned work to replace ageing metal gas mains which needs to be carried out urgently, as well as safety-critical services including responding to gas emergencies, emergency repairs and maintenance.

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work will be carried out in the street, following Government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible. There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe, and sure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

In order for our engineers to carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect members of the public, some traffic management measures will be necessary.

There will be temporary three-way traffic lights at the junction of Junction Road and North Albert Road, from 24 April to 27th April. At the same time, there will also be a road closure at the junction of Junction Road and Fife Road, also ending on 27th April. There will be signage in both directions, alerting drivers to the traffic lights and road closure ahead. Drivers are advised to leave extra time for their journeys or use a different route.

Engineers will observe safe distance working and wear PPE at all times.

Steve Pigott, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these critical works. However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the residents of Norton.

“NGN is continuing to carry out its critical activities while following Government guidelines for safe distance working and observing health and safety guidance during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

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

Customers can read more about our Covid Secure Promise here.

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.