MOTORISTS are warned to expect delays and parking restrictions when 16 weeks of work to replace ageing gas pipes starts on Monday.

Northern Gas Networks will invest £150,000 to upgrade the distribution network in and around Cockton Hill Rod, Bishop Auckland, by replacing approximately 800m of existing metal pipes with plastic ones.

The company said the old pipes have required a series of repairs in recent years but the upgrade will ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas for years to come without the need for repeated repairs.

The first phase will be carried out on Cockton Hill Road and Woodhouse Lane, with four-way traffic signals installed for approximately four weeks. It will then move up towards the Kwik Fit garage and Bishop Auckland Baptist Church.

Shops and businesses will remain open throughout but parking in and around the work will be limited.

NGN staff have been door-knocking residents and businesses to make them aware of the work and there will be onsite signage to inform motorists.

Site manager Nigel Pearson 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.”

  • Regular updates will also be available on NGN’s website northerngasnetworks.co.uk, Twitter @NGNgas and Facebook @northerngasnetworks