National Grid has started work on a major project to keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in March until the end of the century.

Engineers will be renewing more than four miles of gas pipes. The existing iron mains will be replaced with tough, long-lasting plastic pipes that will last for at least 80 years.

The work will take place in mainly residential areas on the east side of the town, from Asplin Avenue to Cavalry Drive. Work started last week and is expected to be finished in April.

Traffic management measures, such as temporary traffic lights or road closures, are not currently necessary. However, motorists are warned there may be short delays to journeys while lorries deliver essential equipment and collect spoil from the excavations.

National Grid authorising engineer Dilbir Chana said: “This vital project will ensure that local people continue to enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply for decades to come. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused but we would urge people to bear with us while we complete this essential work. We will make every effort to minimise any disruption and complete the work as soon as possible.”

Work is currently under way in Asplin Avenue. It will be suspended over Christmas, with all excavations filled in and barriers removed. Work will resume on January 4.

This week engineers will be replacing the gas service pipes, which connect individual homes to the gas main in the road. The gas supply has to be cut off for one day, between breakfast and teatime, while the pipes are replaced.

National Grid is providing electric fan heaters and hotplates to elderly and vulnerable householders while they are without gas. However, if anyone has concerns about a vulnerable neighbour or relative they are urged to call National Grid’s customer services team on 0800-0965678 or speak to engineers working in Asplin Avenue.

When Asplin Avenue is completed National Grid will then begin work in Robshaw Close, Morton Avenue and Collingwood Avenue.