Cornmarket set for major gas works

WORK to replace old gas mains in the Cornmarket is set to cause some disruption to motorists.

The second phase of a £150,000 project by the National Grid to improve the gas supply in the city centre is due to start on February 13.

Engineers will start replacing the 80-year old gas mains in the Cornmarket with a new hard-wearing plastic pipe, which will improve the safety and reliability of the gas supply.

The work is expected to be completed by the end of March and during this time the junction of New Street and the Cornmarket will be closed.

Motorists will be able to drive along New Street from Charles Street but will have to turn around before the Cornmarket junction.

The one-way system on New Street will be cancelled temporarily so vehicles can do a U-turn and return to Charles Street.

National Grid project manager Mick Brettle said they had worked closely with the county council, Visit Worcester and local traders while planning the scheme in a bid to reduce the disruption and ensure the safety of pedestrians.

"We realise this second phase will cause some inconvenience but I ask the public to bear with us while we carry out this essential job," he said.

"The work will be a short term inconvenience for a long term benefit. Once it's in the ground, the new plastic pipe will last for around 80 years and will need little or no maintenance."

The first phase of the project took place last year when the old mains running along the High Street and Church Street were replaced.