WORK to upgrade gas pipes in Bishopsteignton starts next week.

Wales and West Utilities will begin work in the Teignmouth Road area on March 3.

Barring any engineering difficulties, the work is due to be finished by the end of May.

The work is said to be essential to keep the gas flowing safely and reliably to local homes and businesses.

The gas emergency and pipeline service has liaised with Devon County Council to plan the work.

It has been agreed there will be rolling traffic lights on Teignmouth Road, between the junctions of Newfoundland Road and Church Road from March 3 to the end of May.

A road closure will be in place on the junction of Church Road from April 28 to May 11.

During this time motorists won’t be able to gain access onto Teignmouth Road from church road, but the road will remain open under traffic lights.

Wales and West Utilities Roxanne Whittaker said: ‘We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future.

‘We’ll have a team of gas engineers on site throughout the project to make sure our work is completed as safely and as quickly as possible while keeping disruption to a minimum.

‘While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across the area.

'Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.

'This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane.’