WORK to upgrade the gas mains in Masham have been put on hold temporarily due to extreme weather conditions in the area.

Northern Gas Networks is spending £340,000 to insert a new 1.5km medium pressure gas main using innovative new techniques under the River Ure.

The scheme has been designed to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

The four week project was due to start this week but has now become the latest victim of the flooding in the area – with the River Ure currently 1.16 metres above normal.

Construction area manager Stuart Armin said: “After much consideration we have taken the decision to postpone the project as the current conditions would deem it unsafe to carry out the works.”

He added: “We will continue to work closely with the local highways authority and parish council to reschedule the works to take place when it is safe to do so.”

For further information about the project visit northerngasnetworks.co.uk