From Monday (14 May), the North of England’s gas distributor, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), will be upgrading the gas distribution network on Orton Road, Carlisle.

The project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and involves replacing approximately 7km of existing metal gas pipes with more durable plastic ones.

The ageing metal gas main has required several repairs in recent years and NGN has prioritised the pipe for replacement to minimise any inconvenience caused by future repairs and ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas for years to come.

The 26-week project has been carefully planned in conjunction with Carlisle City Council to minimise the impact caused. Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual.

NGN’s Customer Care Officers have been out knocking on doors of local homes and businesses to make customers aware of the project. There will on-site signage advising motorists of the work taking place.

Matty McBride, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have been working closely with Carlisle City 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 caused 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.