TRAFFIC congestion will last for at least three weeks as work on a £130,000 upgrade to the gas distribution network at Bradley will begin on August 18.

Northern Gas Networks (NGN) is investing the money to replace the ageing gas pipes in Keighley Road.

The major project is part of NGN’s ongoing development of infrastructure in the area, and will involve replacing 640 metres of existing metal gas mains with more durable plastic pipes, to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

The project is expected to last about eight weeks, with an estimated completion date of October 15.

It has been planned in conjunction with North Yorkshire County Council to ensure all works are completed with as little disruption as possible. In order to complete the works as safely and efficiently as possible, it is necessary to have traffic management measures in place. There will be two-way temporary traffic lights introduced in Keighley Road, at the junction of Ings Lane, from today until September 9.

The project will be carried out between the hours of 7pm and 6am, due to the level of traffic flow in Keighley Road. All excavations will be temporarily backfilled during the day to allow the road to run as normal to ensure safety to all motorists.

All bus services will run as usual, however there may be some delays due to the traffic management in place. Bus companies will be advised of the works ahead of the start dates and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

NGN construction services area manager, Ian Cunningham, said: “We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused during these works, and thank our customers for their patience and support in getting them completed as quickly as possible.”

Call NGN’s customer care team on 0800 0407766, option seven, or e-mail customercare@northerngas.co.uk for more details.