A DATE has been set in the New Year for the start of work to upgrade the ageing gas distribution network in Durham City centre.

Northern Gas Networks (NGN) will begin the £290,000 project on Monday, January 6 with work carried out the work in three phases “to minimise city centre disruption”.

The work is scheduled for completion in May 2014.

The work will involve replacing 830 metres of existing metal gas mains with more durable plastic pipes to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers.

NGN customer operations area manager John Richardson said: “We’ve developed a phased plan for this project by working closely with Durham County Council to minimise disruption to motorists, residents and local businesses.”

As part of this project, NGN will be working in the Millburngate - junction of Millburngate towards Framwellgate Bridge - and North Road areas of the city.

The company says, in order to carry out the work safely and efficiently, it will be necessary to install temporary traffic lights on Millburngate for about eight weeks from Monday January 6.

The section of North Road leading onto Crossgate and Silver Street will be closed for about two weeks from Monday January 27.

Businesses in the area will be open as usual and access for deliveries will be maintained.

Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times throughout the project.

Mr Richardson said, “We will continue to keep the general public informed throughout our essential work in Durham city centre.

“Our customer care team will be on hand at St Nicholas Church, Market Place to answer any questions from members of the public.

“The team will be at the venue from 1.30pm to 3.30pm every Monday and Wednesday, from Wednesday January 8 until Wednesday January 29.”

Mr Richardson added: “We would like to take this opportunity to apologise in advance for any inconvenience this essential work may cause and thank members of the public for their patience and support.”

Anyone with any questions about the work should contact the customer care team on 0845-634-0508, option 7.

The team is available between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am and 5pm on Saturday.