WORK is due to get underway to upgrade gas pipes in Truro city centre, which will cause traffic disruption.

Wales & West Utilities will be undertaking the scheme in the St Austell Street area from Monday, January 5 and, if all goes to plan, it will finish by February 9.

Cornwall Council and the gas company have agreed closures in the timeframe at New Bridge Street, between the junctions of Duke Street and St Clement Street, at Duke Street, between the junctions of Boscawen Street and New Bridge Street.

St Mary’s Street, between the junctions of High Cross and New Bridge Street as well as Mitchell Hill, between the junctions of St Clement Street and James Place.

Multi-way traffic lights will be on St Clement Street, Austell Street and Furniss Close.

Wales & West Utilities' Natalie Raphael, who is managing this gas pipe upgrade work, said: “We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it 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.

“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of this community. 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 green gases in the future.

“Wales & West Utilities is the gas emergency and pipeline service, delivering energy to over 7.5 million people across Wales and the south west of England. We don’t sell gas; we transport it through an extensive underground network of more than 35,000 kilometres of pipes.

“If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, call the National Gas Emergency number on 0800 111 999 immediately. Trained engineers are available 24/7 to respond and keep you safe.

“To find out more about our pipe upgrade work, please visit www.wwutilities.co.uk/services/gas-pipe-upgrades/pipe-upgrades/. If you have further queries about the project, our customer service team is here to help. You can call us free on 0800 912 2999, message us on X (@WWUtilities), or visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/wwutilities.”