A major borough road is set to close tomorrow morning, Wednesday, as work gets underway to install gas network pipes to reduce the risk of power outages.

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.   

The road will close after morning rush hour traffic on Wednesday as the operator starts work on the final sections of the project.  

The works will last until the middle of December when the bypass will be reopened under two-way traffic lights.

These will remain until work finishes either in December or January. 

The work involves constructing a new gas pressure management station and commissioning the new pipes. 

The work follows the two-way traffic lights that were put in place two weeks ago. 

Cadent is making sure the additional demand for gas will not impact on the supply of it to thousands of buildings. 

Mark Syers, Cadent’s head of investment planning for the North West, said: “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.” 

Cllr David Grant, who represents Horwich South and Blackrod, says he regularly keeps residents informed of roadworks amid the traffic disruption they are often faced with.

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.