THE company behind £150,000 gas works in Corbridge has urged motorists to use signposted diversions due to fears over public safety.

The last phase of work began on Monday, which meant the road on the corner outside the Wheatsheaf Inn at the junction of Watling Street and St Helen’s Street had to be closed.

Traffic has been diverted along Hill Street for the duration of the three-week project - but drivers have been using shortcuts instead of the diversion.

Northern Gas is concerned that the narrow lanes being used could pose a danger to the public.

A spokeswoman for Northern Gas said: "If you are a motorist affected by the closure of Stagshaw Road (B6529) on the corner of the Wheatsheaf Inn in Corbridge, please use the signposted diversion instead of other routes.

"The diversion runs along Hill Street, and in the interests of public safety we are asking drivers not to use nearby shortcuts and lanes.

"Residents living at Bank Top still have access to their homes. The works are due to finish on Sunday, April 5."