Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North England, is to launch a major new investment project to support the growing population of Penrith.

The scheme is worth more than £5.75m and will see the construction of a five-and-a-half-mile gas pipeline, stretching from a gas site in Melkinthorpe to Penrith and including the upgrade of the Melkinthorpe site.

It will take eight months to install the new pipe, with the vast majority of work taking place under farmland. Customers’ existing gas supplies will not be disrupted, and traffic disruption will be minimal.

The project has been planned in conjunction with Eden District Council to minimise the impact of the work. Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual.

The first phase of the work will get underway later this month (September), on farmland between Wetheriggs and the A66. It will last approximately three months and local roads will not be affected.

Kris McNichol, Project Lead at Northern Gas Networks, said: “This new pipeline is essential to support Penrith’s growing population. It will ensure there is an adequate gas supply to support homes and businesses for decades to come.

“Although this is a major infrastructure project, the good news for residents and motorists is that there will be very little disruption. The vast majority of work will take place underneath farmland, away from roads and businesses.

“We will be keeping the local community updated as the scheme progresses.”

To find out the latest information about the project, please visit; https://www.northerngasnetworks.co.uk/work-in-your-area/upgradingourpipes/

Residents can also call 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.