OREANDA-NEWS. National Grid will be starting work next week on a gas mains upgrade in Ampthill to keep the gas flowing to residents and businesses until the end of the century.

From Monday 11 August engineers will renew 177 metres of gas mains in Church Street. The existing metal mains will be replaced with new long-lasting plastic pipes that have a lifespan of 80 years if left undisturbed in the ground. The project is expected to last three weeks.

National Grid authorising engineer Dilbir Chana said: “It's our job to connect people to the energy they use and these new gas mains will help ensure local businesses and residents continue to enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply.

“Wherever possible we always try to minimize the impact of our work on the community. This project has been scheduled for the school summer holidays to reduce disruption to local people and motorists.”

To carry out the works safely Church Street will be closed to through traffic. A signed diversion route will be in place via Dunstable Street, Flitwick Road, the A507, and Flitwick Road.

Access will be maintained for residents and businesses. Businesses will be open as usual.

Some local gas service pipes to properties and businesses are being replaced and engineers will need access to them to do the work, which will involve a brief interruption of the gas supply. Those affected will be given advance notice.