From Monday 9 April, the North of England’s gas distributor, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), will start work on upgrading the ageing gas distribution network on Abbey Street, Carlisle.

The project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and involves replacing approximately 500m of 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 future inconvenience caused.

The five-week project has been carefully planned in conjunction with Cumbria County Council and NGN will aim to complete the work as safely and efficiently as possible.

In order to carry out works, it will be necessary to implement parking bay closures on Cecil Street (adjacent from the Travelodge), and also on the left-hand side of Abbey Street and on the right-hand side of Paternoster Row. Parking will be unavailable at these locations whilst works are in progress.

Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual throughout the project.

Matty McBride, Business Operational Leader for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have been working closely with Cumbria 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.