A ROAD closure and diversion will be in place when a utilities company begins work near Bishop Auckland tomorrow.

Northern Gas Networks (NGN), expects work to upgrade the gas pipes on Tindale Crescent, St Helen Auckland, to take around four months.

NGN said the project is part of its ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and involves replacing approximately 250m of existing metal gas pipes with more durable plastic ones to ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers for years to come.

A spokesperson said the work has been planned in conjunction with Durham County Council to minimise the impact caused.

A road closure will be in place during the 18 week project.

A signed diversion route will go via Dilks Street and Watling Road or in reverse, and access for residents and businesses will be maintained.

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

Nigel Pearson, site manager for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have been working closely with Durham 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 contact NGN’s customer care team on 0800-0407766 or email customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas emergency service immediately on 0800-111999.