GAS pipe upgrade work in Kingskerswell is moving onto the second phase but this will mean the closure of a number of roads.

Wales and West Utilities will soon start replacing pipes in the Newton Road area.

The work, which began in June, is part of the utility company’s move to improve reliability and supply and is due to finish early next year.

The work has been planned in conjunction with Devon County Council, and it has been agreed that during the project traffic management will be in place.

During the second phase of the project this includes road closures on Daccabridge Road September 28 October 19; Pound Lane from October 19 to November 2; Rose Hill October 19 to November 2; Church End Road November 2 to 16; The Tors November 2 to 16; Yon Street November 2 to 16; Fore Street, up to Marguerite Way November 16 to December 2 and Church End Road November 16 to December 2.

Motorists are advised to allow sufficient travel time.

The project is part of Wales & West Utilities work to invest nearly £780,000 over the next few years to upgrade gas pipes across Kingskerswell.

The intensive programme of wider mains replacement works will see over 2,500 metres of gas pipes upgraded across the area.

Wales & West Utilities Roxanne Whittaker is managing this work and said: ‘We’d like to thank the local community for their patience as we carry out this important work.

‘We are committed to keep the local community updated of our progress as we work to upgrade our gas network to ensure it remains safe, reliable and fit for the future for the customers we serve across the area.

‘We’ll continue to work closely with the local authority, and commit to keep communities informed as projects are planned and delivered.

‘We understand our work can cause disruption, but it is essential to maintain a resilient gas network that households and business can rely on every day.

'While much of the gas network is out of sight, it plays a vital role in daily life – from heating homes to cooking meals and we know how important it is that gas is there when people need it.

‘Once we’ve completed this intensive phase of work, we’ll leave behind an upgraded network that meets today’s energy needs, and is ready to transport greener gases in the future.

‘By completing this work now, barring any emergency repairs, we can avoid returning to the area and causing further disruption to the local community for decades.’