From Monday 19 March, the North of England’s gas distributor, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), will start work on upgrading the ageing gas distribution network on the junction of Redworth Road and Dale Road, Shildon.

The £23,000 project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and involves replacing the existing metal gas pipes with more durable plastic ones. This will ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

The ageing metal gas main has required several repairs in recent years so NGN has prioritised the pipe for replacement to minimise any inconvenience caused by future repairs.

The three-week project has been carefully planned in conjunction with Durham County Council and the NGN will endeavour to complete the work as safely and efficiently as possible and will provide regular updates throughout the project.

In order to carry out works, it will be necessary to implement a road closure at the junction of Redworth Road and Dale Road for the full duration of the project. A signed diversion route will be in place and access for residents will be remain.

Shops and businesses 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 about the project please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects 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.