MOTORISTS are being warned about potential disruption to a busy road while gas improvement works are carried out.

Northern Gas Networks is upgrading ageing metallic gas mains in Thinford Lane and Thinford roundabout on the A167, in County Durham.

The project, which is due to commence on Saturday (July 19), will involve replacing the existing metallic gas main with more durable plastic pipes.

To minimise the level of disruption caused, the scheme which is expected to take six weeks, has been planned to take place during the school holidays.

Shops and businesses will remain open as usual. The layby opposite Thinford Lane Inn will remain closed throughout the duration of the work and used as a temporary car park for local businesses.

In order to carry out our work, it will be necessary to close a stretch of the A688 Thinford Lane leading up to the roundabout. There will be no access for road traffic or pedestrians.

A diversion will be in place throughout and access to Ferryhill will be maintained via Metal Bridge.

All bus services will continue to operate as usual but people are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journey as diversions may result in extended travel times.

The Scarlet Band Bus Company will run a shuttle bus service from Spennymoor to West Cornforth and Ferryhill throughout the duration of the project.