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 Pontefract.

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 for years to come.

The work, which is due to start on Friday 26 July, is expected to take approximately 7 weeks to complete. It has been planned in collaboration with Wakefield City Council.

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

From Friday 26 July there will be a lane closure on the A639 near Park Lane.  This will be in place on both the inbound and outbound route, reducing the number of lanes from two to one in either direction.

There will also be a lane closure on Park Lane. Traffic will be able to access Park Lane from the A639, but will not be able to travel in the opposite direction.

The lane closures will be in place for approximately two weeks and a signed diversion will be in place for motorists.

From Monday 12 August there will be temporary traffic lights on Park Lane, outside New College. The lights will be in place for the remainder of the project.

Advance warning signs will be displayed prior to works starting.

Craig Skinner, Operations Manager 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 homes and businesses in Pontefract.

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.