A MAJOR gas replacement scheme is about to start on one of the main roads into Otley... just a week before the schools reopen.

Northern Gas Networks will begin the work in Pool Road on Bank Holiday Monday to replace a 250-metre section of mains pipe.

The company says the £125,000 project should take about four weeks to complete and will involve two-way traffic lights being used on the A659.

It is hopeful, however, that disruption will be kept to a minimum.

Stakeholder manager south, Jade Wardle, in her letter to ward councillors notifying them about the scheme, said: "This major project is part of Northern Gas Networks’ ongoing replacement of the infrastructure in the region.

"It will involve replacing 250 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 cost of investment to carry out this scheme is £125,000.

"The works have been planned in very carefully with Leeds City Council and the highways authorities to ensure they are completed in a timely manner, with as little disruption as possible.

"In an attempt to get the works completed as quickly as possible, our engineers will be working on site Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

"In order to carry out the works safely and efficiently, it will be necessary to put traffic management measurements in place. Two-way traffic lights will be in situ in Pool Road for the duration of the works; it is anticipated that this will have very low impact on traffic flow.

"Whilst traffic management is in place, bus stops may need to be suspended and temporary stops will be positioned outside of our temporary lights.

"If this does need to happen, temporary bus stops will be clearly indicated and displayed for all bus users to see."

She added efforts will be made to keep all footpaths open, but temporary walkways for access will be provided should any need to be closed.

Cllr Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) said: "I don't think there is ever a good time to dig up a major road.

"I would hope the contractors will be sufficiently flexible to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum during the morning and evening peaks."

Otley – and Pool Road – suffered from tailbacks and other problems after an unpopular, and now abandoned, one-way system was introduced last October.

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