MORE details have emerged about the 16-week project to replace over a mile of ageing gas mains in Hexham.

Work got under way on Monday on the £265,000 scheme by Northern Gas Networks to upgrade metal pipes on the B6306, which leave the town via Eastgate and Gallows Bank.

The pipes have been in place since 1935 and will be replaced with more durable plastic ones. Eastgate is currently closed to traffic for four weeks, with access for residents and pedestrians only.

Phase two of the works is due to begin outside St Wilfreds Lodge on August 22 and progress to Greenbank Cottage, then on from Corner Cottage to the junction of Stoneleigh.

This work will take another four weeks with the road closed to traffic and open to residents and pedestrians only. Phase three and four will take place on Gallows Bank and Tyneview Terrace and officials from Northern Gas Networks say no traffic management will be needed.

Richie Manuel, construction services area manager for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We will be doing all we can to minimise disruption to customers.

“We will endeavour to carry out this work as quickly and safely as possible and will be sure to keep customers updated as the work progresses.”