GAS pipe replacement work has started in the Harraby area of Carlisle.

Northern Gas Networks (NGN), is carrying out essential works to upgrade the gas distribution network around Mallyclose Drive in Carlisle.

The £370k project is part of NGN’s ongoing investment in the gas infrastructure in the area and involves replacing more than 5km of existing metal gas pipes with more durable plastic ones.

This will ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

The works have been carefully planned in conjunction with Cumbria County Council and will began on Monday.

As well as Mallyclose Drive, the project will also encompass Cumwhinton Road, Hope Hill Drive, Highwood Cresent, Ashford Way, Forest Hill, High Green Croft and Farbrow Road.

In order for the works to be carried out safely and efficiently, it will be necessary to implement some temporary traffic management measures at a later stage during the scheme.

NGN will provide full updates on the traffic management detail as the project progresses.

A customer drop-in session was held on Wednesday (MAY 22) so customers could ask any questions they may have about the project.

Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual throughout the project.

Jamie Wright, site manager for Northern Gas Networks said: “We have been working closely with Cumbria County Council to carefully plan these works and will be doing all we can to minimise disruption to customers.

“We’d like to apologise for any inconvenience customers may encounter and thank everyone for their support as we work to complete this project as safely and quickly as possible.”

NGN’s customer care officers will be door-knocking local residents and businesses to make customers aware of the project, while on-site signage will advise motorists of the work taking place.

Regular updates will also be available on NGN’s website northerngasnetworks.co.uk, Twitter @NGNgas and Facebook @northerngasnetworks.