RESIDENTS and shoppers in Guiseley face potential disruption during a major gas works project due to start in July.

The ageing gas network in Park Road is earmarked for a £67,000 upgrade by Northern Gas Networks (NGN), with 544 metres of existing gas mains being replaced by more durable plastic pipes.

NGN says this will ensure a safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in the area for years to come.

Work will begin on July 25 and last about five weeks, with an estimated completion date of August 26.

The scheme has been planned in conjunction with Leeds City Council to take place during the school holidays, when traffic is lighter, to minimise disruption to motorists.

In order to complete the project safely and efficiently, traffic management measures will be in place. Work will begin outside 27a Park Road, where there will be a road closure at the junction of Silverdale Avenue from July 25 for about a week.

Multi-phase temporary traffic lights will then be in place for the remaining four weeks. Bus companies will be notified of the diversion route before work begins, while pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

NGN’s engineers will be working seven days a week, from 8am to 5pm.

Russ Oxley, construction services area manager for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have been working closely with Leeds City Council to carefully plan this project and minimise disruption to customers.

“Work will begin on a Monday to reduce impact near the retail park, and we will be working seven days a week to finish the scheme as quickly as we can.

“We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience to customers and to thank them for their patience and support in getting these essential works completed as quickly as possible.”

Contact NGN’s customer care team on 0800 0407766 or e-mail customercare@northerngas.co.uk for more details about the project.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111999. This line is in operation 24 hours per day, seven days per week.