A GAS company is to spend thousands of pounds upgrading gas mains in east Durham.
Northern Gas Networks is investing more than £190,000 to replace ageing metal gas mains in Peterlee.
The gas mains replacement project will secure the safety and reliability of the gas supply for decades to come.
Work is already underway and is expected to be completed in early July.
Around 1.7km of metal pipes will be replaced with more durable plastic versions on Thornes Close, Fulwell Road, Heath Close, Eastdene Way and Cornfield Garth.
The new pipes will be connected to the existing gas network involving small excavations on Nesbit Road, Granville Road and Manor Way.
The work is not expected to cause any disruption to road users as it benefits a mainly residential area.
Northern Gas Networks' area operations manager Dean Shepherdson said: "There may be some short-term inconvenience associated with this work, but it is important that we get it done as it will safeguard gas supplies for hundreds of gas customers.
"This year, Northern Gas Networks is investing £63 million to renew gas mains across the North East, northern Cumbria and Yorkshire to ensure that our system remains one of the safest in the world.
"The good news is that our new plastic pipes are more durable and flexible and have a lifespan of around 80 years."
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