Essential work is taking place over coming weeks to ensure the continued safe and reliable gas supply to customers in an area of Chester-le-Street.

An ageing main, serving streets near the town centre, which has previously undergone several repairs, has been prioritised by operator Northern Gas Networks (NGN) for, "urgent replacement", with new, more durable plastic pipes.

The eight-week project will take place on Shields Road, Village Place, Hopgarth Gardens, Picktree Terrace, Picktree Cottages and Picktree Lane (B6313), starting on Monday (June 20).

It has been planned in collaboration with Durham County Council to take place partly during the school summer holidays, to minimise impact on traffic at key commuting times.

As a means of protecting engineers and members of the public, some traffic management measures will be introduced during the period of the works.

These are likely to impact journey times in the area, so motorists are advised to leave extra time for travel.

Multi-way temporary traffic lights will be placed on Picktree Lane for three weeks from Monday July 25.

NGN site manager Ashley Whitfield, 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 the residents of Chester-le-Street.

“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”

Read more: Roadworks start in Darlington to replace gas pipes in Yarm Road

Further information about the work is available from NGN’s customer care team, via customercare@northerngas.co.uk, or by ringing 0800-040 7766.

Anyone smelling gas or suspecting the presence of 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. 

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