Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out essential work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Seaham, County Durham.

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 in Seaham for years to come.

The work has now started and is expected to last for 13 weeks. It has been planned in collaboration with Durham County Council.

So that engineers can carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect the public, some traffic management measures will be put in place.

There are temporary traffic lights which will follow our works along the B1285 near Seaham.

We currently have four-way traffic lights on the junction of the B1285, Seaton Lane and Lord Byrons Walk. Our work will continue from the above junction, along the B1285, past Seaham Town Hall and Seaham High School. Works will finish just past Glebe House.

Signs will be displayed for motorists and a full signed diversion put in place. However, traffic delays are expected, so motorists are advised to leave extra time for their journeys. We apologise for any disruption that is being caused by our works taking place.

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

To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being 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 ensure that the work is Covid-19 secure.

Engineers will observe safe distance working and wear PPE at all times. Engineers will only request entry to a customer’s property if it is absolutely necessary in order to ensure their safety, the continuity of a safe gas supply or at a customer’s request.

Fergal O’Donovan, 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 vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the residents of Seaham.

“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.”

Customers can read more about our Covid Secure Promise at 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.