URGENT repairs to a gas main in Ramsbottom begin this week.

Cadent, which manages the North West’s 21,000-mile gas network, is to investigate the source of tiny traces of gas detected around Ramsbottom Lane.

The company has assured residents it is not posing any immediate danger as vent holes are allowing the gas to escape to atmosphere, but a spokesman said the issue needs to be investigated and repairs completed.

Starting on Wednesday, May 5 from 9am, Cadent teams will set up a work area near to the junction with Bridge Street, Carr Street and Bolton Street.

These roads will remain open in all directions, with traffic lights controlling the flow of vehicles around the specific work area.

There will be no access from Ramsbottom Lane to Market Place, and vice versa. A short diversion will be signposted here.

Cadent is aiming to complete the work within the next week, before Electricity North West arrive for unrelated planned works. It is unsafe to do the jobs at the same time.

“Our absolute priority here is keeping everyone safe,” said a Cadent spokesman. “We appreciate everyone’s patience while we get this essential work done.”

If anyone smells gas, call the national gas emergency service on 0800 111 999 immediately. Please do not assume it is related to this work – it may not be and needs to be checked. All calls are recorded and may be monitored.