DRIVERS will be hit with two weeks of delays on a key road.

Engineers from Cadent will dig up part of Bury Road, which connects Bury and Bolton, in order to replace a gas main pipe close to the junction with Empire Road.

The work is set to begin on Monday, August 5, and will continue until Tuesday, August 20, with temporary traffic lights in place throughout. It follows a month-long programme on Long Lane which will end as the new project begins.

Bolton Council’s Highways department expects the scheme to cause a ‘high level’ of disruption on the street and delays are likely to be more frequent during commuter hours.

Nearly 90 percent of the 5,897 homes in Breightmet are heated by gas and the new pipe will replace an old metallic main with a durable plastic expected to last 80 years.

“This is vital work, future-proofing our gas mains so customers in Bolton can receive safe and reliable supplies, for heating their homes and cooking meals,” said Craig Horrocks, who heads Cadent’s mains replacement in the North West. “Our gas mains are mostly located underneath roads, which means we face a big challenge to safely carry out heavy engineering schemes in close proximity to motorists and pedestrians. So, as you can imagine, the start of work here in Breightmet is actually the culmination of months of planning, including liaising with Bolton Council to agree the best time to carry out the work and how best to safely manage pedestrians and traffic passing our work area.

“Safety is always our top priority, and I really want to thank people for their patience and understanding as we complete this essential upgrade.”

Bury Road will remain open with a lane closure and two way traffic lights. There will be no access to or from either Long Lane or Empire Road, where they join Bury Road. There will be a signed diversion route in place. Access to homes and shops will be maintained.

Residents are advised not to dismiss smells of gas as part of the scheme. If you smell gas, call 0800 111 999.