OREANDA-NEWS. This week will see the start of a revamp of gas mains in Alport, Derbyshire, that will keep gas flowing to local homes and businesses until the end of the century.

National Grid engineers will be renewing more than 850 metres of gas pipes in Alport Lane, Alport, near Bakewell. This essential work is due to start on Wednesday 8 October and is expected to take 10 weeks.

It will involve replacing the existing iron gas mains with new, hardwearing plastic pipe, which has a lifespan of 80 years if left undisturbed in the ground.

National Grid authorising engineer Paul Patrick said: "It's our job to connect people to the energy they use and these new gas mains will help ensure that people in the Alport area continue to enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come. We will make every effort to minimize any inconvenience caused by our work."

To carry out the work safely Alport Lane will be temporarily closed between the junction of B5056 and Dark Lane while the project is under way. A signed diversion route will be in place for motorists. National Grid has also arranged for a shuttle bus to be available for residents during the road closure.

If anyone has any queries about the work they can contact customer services on 0800 0965678.