ROAD diversions are in place in Bishop Auckland while work to upgrade the area's water network takes place.

Closures have been put in place on Greenfields Road and Dilks Street, in the Tindale Crescent area, to ensure safety for workers replacing a large iron water pipe with a plastic one on behalf of Northumbrian Water.

The work will protect the quality and resilience of the water supply and reduce the risk of bursts.

The crossroads between Watling Road and Maude Street remain open, while the work is carried out by contractors, Fastflow Pipeline Services. The diversions will route motorists through Woodhouse Close estate.

Northumbrian Water's project manager, Brian Hardy, said: "The essential work to renew this water pipe requires us to work through the crossroads in the Tindale Crescent area. The closures requested by Durham County Council are necessary to ensure safety of the workers, but the diversions and keeping the main road between Watling Road and Maude Street open will minimise the impact for motorists.We would like to take this opportunity to thank customers and motorists for their patience during the course of this important work."

For information follow Northumbrian Water on Twitter @nwater_care or call the company's customer centre on 0345-7171100.