WORK is set to begin on a four-month project to replace essential gas mains in Parkgate causing road closures and diversions.

A total of 2.1 kilometres of gas mains will be replaced by National Grid engineers during the scheme, which is due to start on April 1.

Roads affected by the work include Springcroft, The Ropewalks, The Looms, Carlton Close, Hawthorn Road, Mooring Close, Bowring Drive, Moorfield Drive, Brooklands Road and Brooklands Garden.

National Grid say temporary traffic lights will be used if required at various locations during the work, which is expected to be comepleted by the end of July.

It has been timed to coincide with school holidays to ease congestion on roads in the area.

The work is being carried out in partnership with Balfour Beatty. Stephen Murray, contract manager, National Grid said: "People across Cheshire enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply and our job is to make sure it stays that way.

"The new mains we are laying will last at least 80 years so while there will be some traffic delays in the short term, the long term benefit will be mains which will last for many decades to come.

"We’ll be replacing mains on a number of main roads and in residential areas.

"We promised we’ll let people know when we’re about to start work. We’ll get the job done as quickly and as tidily as possible.

"We’ll do our best to keep traffic flowing and to make sure streets and driveways remain accessible."

Work is also underway in Thornton Hough and Heswall on the Western Link cable project, a joint venture between National Grid and Scottish Power.

The cable will bring renewable energy from Scotland to homes and businesses in England and Wales and aims to help the government meet its renewable energy targets.

From Monday March 24, Parkgate Lane will be closed for four weeks, including weekends.

Diversion signs will be in place for an alternative route, which will involve using Liverpool Road for access into Thornton Hough from the Chester High Road.

From Monday March 31, Whitehouse Lane will be closed for four weeks including weekends.

Diversion signs will be in place for an alternative route and access to and from the surrounding villages will be possible along Barnston Road and Brimstage Road.

More details on the project is available by calling 0161 703 1000.