Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North of England, is carrying out essential work to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the Chester-le-Street area of Durham.
The ageing metal pipework is now being replaced by new, more durable plastic pipes, to ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers now, while getting the network ready to transport alternative green fuels such as hydrogen in the future.
So engineers can carry out the work safely and efficiently, and to protect the public, some traffic management measures will be introduced in the project which has been planned in collaboration with Durham County Council.
The work will start on Monday 17th January on the northbound A167, where one lane on the dual carriageway will be closed for one week.
Teams will then be working on Ropery Lane from Monday 24th January for approximately six weeks.
Temporary traffic lights will be placed on Ropery Lane, following the work for the full duration as it progresses. The work is expected to impact journey times so motorists are advised to plan extra time for travel during key commute times.
Signs will be displayed for motorists before and during the works.
While the majority of the work will be carried out in the street, engineers will need to access customer properties to complete the project and ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas.
Shaun Williams, Site Manager 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 Chester-le-Street.
“NGN is continuing to carry out its essential activities while following strict guidelines for safe distance working, where possible, and following good hygiene practices as we continue to live with coronavirus.
“We want to assure residents and road users that we will be working hard to complete this essential scheme as safely and as quickly as possible.”
While all of NGN’s work has now resumed, extra safety precautions remain in place to keep everyone safe while we continue to live with Covid-19.
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.