WORK to replace an ageing gas pipe, which was abandoned in June due to road safety concerns, is set to resume from early next month.

Gas network Cadent said it was forced to halt work on the pipe, beneath Crompton Way, as some drivers were ignoring a 'no left turn' sign at the junction with Tonge Moor Road, endangering their work force and other motorists.

But the firm said the work to replace the metal pipe was ‘essential’ and would consult with Highways officers to find an alternative plan.

Bosses have now announced a new plan which they hope will allow the 506 metres of new pipe to be installed safely.

It last for nearly two months and includes the closure of Back Tonge Moor Road from Crompton Way to Hall I’th Wood Lane for two weeks and a number of lane closures.

The work will begin on Monday, September 4 and is expected to be completed in late October.

A spokesman for Cadent said: “This is essential work to keep energy flowing to this area of Bolton until the end of the century.

“This work originally started in June, but was postponed almost immediately after some motorists ignored the change in traffic flow, putting the safety of our engineers in the road, and other motorists, at risk. The works are resuming under a new plan and new traffic arrangements.”

“Cadent’s contractors have liaised closely with the local highways authority to agree the timing and the most appropriate traffic management. The teams will aim to maintain pedestrian access to residents, shops and businesses at all times.”

The new pipe will be made of a durable plastic and is expected to last until at least the end of the century.

Cadent has sent letters to homes and businesses directly affected, and will be going door-to-door before the start of works.

The full schedule of temporary traffic arrangements that will accompany the works is as follows

From Monday, September, 4 for about seven weeks there will be a lane closure on Crompton Way, between the junctions of Back Tonge Moor Road and Kentfield Drive, heading towards Astley Bridge Police Station.

The only full road closure will be on Back Tonge Moor Road, from Crompton Way to Hall i’th Wood Lane begins from Monday, October 9 for approximately two weeks.

And, there will be a lane closure on Hall i’th Wood Lane, from Tonge Moor Road to Back Tonge Moor Road for about two weeks from Wedneday, October 18.

Motorists facing misery while ageing gas pipe under Crompton Way between Tonge Moor Road and Kentfield Drive is replaced

Residents or business owners can contact Cadent’s customer service team with queries on 0161 703 1000 / 1010.

The firm also stresses that if anyone smells gas during the work it is important they report it immediately to the national gas emergency service on 0800 111 999.