MAJOR work on the gas network is set to cause disruption and traffic chaos across Bedale over the next 18-weeks.

Northern Gas Networks say they have to carry out essential work to ensure a continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Bedale and Aiskew Village.

Work started on Monday to replace the ageing metal pipework with new, more durable plastic pipes.

Steve Pigott, business operations lead for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these critical works.

"However, it is vital we complete them in order to continue to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to the residents of Bedale and Aiskew Village.

“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.”

Mr Piggott said work has begun on Firby Road with temporary two-way traffic lights in place for approximately four weeks.

Once the work is completed on Firby Road, the temporary two-way lights will move to Bridge Street for approximately one week.

After work is completed on Bridge Street, the temporary traffic lights will be moved to the junctions of Firby Road and Masham Road, where five-way lights will be in place for approximately three weeks.

Following this, temporary traffic lights will continue to move along Masham Road for approximately four weeks to the junction of Apple Tree Road where the scheme will end.

Mr Piggott added: “To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the community, the majority of the work is being carried out in the street, following Government guidelines for safe distance working wherever possible.

"There are also extra safety measures in place to keep everyone safe and ensure that the work is Covid 19 secure.

"Engineers will need to access customer properties to complete the project and ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas.

"There are extra safety precautions in place for working inside: NGN engineers will wash their hands or use hand sanitiser thoroughly before entering a property and wear a face mask and gloves; they will maintain a two metre distance and ask the householders to stay in another room while they work.

“Our engineers may also ask customers if they feel comfortable wearing a face mask themselves during a home visit.”

Residents or businesses concerned about the work can contact Northern Gas customer care teams on 0800 040 7766 email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone who 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.

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