A major project to upgrade gas pipes in Penryn is to begin at the end of this month in a scheme that is costing almost half a million pounds and will take around seven months to complete

Wales & West Utilities is to start work in the West End area of the town from Monday, July 26 and it is not expected to be completed until February next year.

The company said the £450,000 work was "essential to keep the gas flowing" to heat homes and power businesses, and keep the system running for generations to come by allowing to carry 'green' gases in the future.

It involves upgrading more than two kilometres of gas pipes and, barring any engineering difficulties, should be completed by February next year.

To plan the work and make sure disruption is kept to a minimum Wales & West Utilities has worked closely with Cornwall Council and it has been agreed that traffic management will be used throughout the scheme.

Local residents and businesses directly affected by the work will receive information and are encouraged to contact Wales & West Utilities should they have any queries.

Jason Gale from Wales & West Utilities is managing this gas pipe upgrade work. He said: “While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Penryn.

"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, so we can all play our part in a green future.

“We will work as safely and as quickly as possible to finish the work, whilst keeping inconvenience to a minimum for local people and road users. Our engineers are following all hygiene and social distancing guidelines and we would respectfully ask that you keep a two metre distance if passing our work site."

Anyone with questions about the work can call the customer service team on freephone 0800 912 2999 or email enquiries@wwwutilities.co.uk