The final phase of major engineering work to keep gas flowing throughout Bolton is now under way.

Cadent, which manages the local gas network, has already installed 3,000 metres of new pipes under the A6 Blackrod Bypass this year, as part of this same project.

And now as part of the final stages, teams have started work on the final sections, which involves constructing a new gas pressure management station and commissioning new pipes.

The works are underway so a new power station can come online, one that will use gas to generate electricity.

The Bolton News: A6 Blackrod Bypass final phase of major work underway

This will hopefully reduce the risk of power outages in the local area.

The work also means Cadent can be satisfied that this significant additional demand will not impact the supply of gas to heat thousands of homes and other buildings.

Engineers are already working in land adjacent to the A6 Blackrod Bypass.

From Monday October 30, two-way lights will be introduced to the bypass, near Chorley Road, to manage the safe flow of vehicles around the work area.

During week commencing November 13, these traffic lights will be replaced with a full road closure of the A6 Blackrod Bypass, at the junction with Chorley Road.

Traffic will be diverted through Blackrod for around four weeks.

Then, from the middle of December, the bypass will be reopened under two-way traffic lights, and will remain until work finishes either in December or January.

Gas will stay on throughout the works and there should be no impact to gas supply.

Mark Syers, Cadent’s Head of Investment Planning, North West, said: “While our bread and butter is distributing gas into people’s homes, where it’s used for heating, hot water, and cooking, we also supply power generation sites.

“There are times in the UK when as much as 50 per cent of electricity comes from such gas-powered plants.

“Our job is to ensure that gas can be carried in the volumes needed, and safely. That’s why we need to reinforce our network here in Bolton.

“We are grateful for everyone’s patience, particularly due to us needing to close the A6 Blackrod Bypass for four weeks while my teams work in the carriageway.”

Customers with questions about this work can contact the team on 0800 090 3071 or CustomerCareNW@cadentgas.com

If you smell gas during this work, nearby or anywhere, always ring the national gas emergency service immediately, day or night, on 0800 111 999.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno.