Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England is carrying out critical work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Kingsway, Bishop Auckland.
The essential work involves replacing 400m of old metal main with brand-new plastic pipes to reinforce the gas supply in Bishop Auckland.
The ageing main has undergone several recent emergency repairs, so has now been prioritised for urgent replacement.
The nine-week project is taking place at Kingsway, Bishop Auckland, having been planned in collaboration with Durham County Council.
To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the local community at this time, the work is being carried out exclusively in the street, observing strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and following health and safety guidance.
In order for engineers to carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect members of the public, some traffic management measures will be necessary.
Beginning 4 May 2020 and lasting nine weeks, temporary two-way traffic light system will be in place for approximately five weeks. From 15 June 2020 there will be a lane closure on Kingsway for the remainder of the time. Signs will be displayed for motorists and a full signed diversion put in place.
Steve Pigott, Business Operations Lead for Northern Gas Networks, 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 Bishop Auckland.
“NGN is continuing to carry out essential services whilst observing strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and following health and safety guidance during the Coronavirus outbreak.
“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.”
In line with UK Government guidance NGN is continuing to carry out essential services including responding to gas emergencies, carrying out emergency repairs and undertaking critical maintenance activities, to ensure communities continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.
To ensure it can continue to deliver the highest standards of service, and to protect its colleagues, customers and our communities, NGN is suspending the majority of its planned work programme until further notice.
You can find out more about the steps that NGN is taking to keep customers and colleagues safe during the Coronavirus outbreak at www.northerngasnetworks.co.uk
For further information about the work 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.