A major scheme to replace ageing gas mains in Oulton Broad is due to take place next month.

The essential gas mains upgrade works near Lowestoft are scheduled to start February 20, with a planned completion date of Easter.

With existing metal gas mains in Bridge Road 'nearing the end of their operational life,' according to National Grid, they must be replaced to help ensure people keep on enjoying safe and reliable gas supplies for cooking and heating.

The mains will be replaced between Oulton Broad library and the Shell service station in Bridge Road, passing by Oulton Broad North railway station.

Graham Huggett, project engineer, said: 'We're working closely with the local authorities to make sure this project is delivered with as little inconvenience to people as possible.

'By scheduling the work outside of the area's busy summer tourist season and the Christmas period we're hoping that disruption can be minimised.'

Wherever possible new gas pipes are inserted into the old gas mains to minimise digging and associated congestion. However the size and position of the existing gas mains in Bridge Road means that engineers will need to dig trenches to lay most of the new pipes, with the only exception being the rail crossing, where pipes will be inserted.

To enable the work to be carried out safely and efficiently Bridge Road will become a temporary one way system. Eastbound traffic – heading into Lowestoft – will be diverted via pre-planned diversion route. Westbound traffic – heading out of Lowestoft – will remain on Bridge Road, albeit on the opposite side of the road.

Some parking bays in the area will be temporarily suspended.

Gas service pipes to properties in Holly Road and some additional properties in Harbour Road, Commodore Road and Mizpah Cottages will also need to be replaced.

As part of the project some work also needs to take place just across the junction from Harbour Road. This is a busy area for deliveries, so to minimise disruption, the work has been arranged for weekends when minimal deliveries are taking place.

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