THREE weeks of 'essential works' works are currently under way to replace gas pipes under a key route into a town - with the road to close next year.

SGN has been steadily replacing gas mains under A350 Bournemouth Road in Blandford Forum, with nearly 800 metres of 'old leaking metal pipes' already removed and replaced.

After two sets of works, the third phase of the maintenance began on Monday, October 11, with an additional 400m of plastic pipework to be installed near the Badger Roundabout.

A SGN spokesman said this will 'address the ongoing issues with leaks on this section of our network and will ensure we can continue to provide gas safely and efficiently to the local area.'

A lane closure and temporary traffic lights are currently in place to allow the works to be safely carried out and 'to minimise disruption to the local area.'

SGN say workers will return in Spring 2022 to complete the remaining work and due to gas man diverting across the road, the route will be fully closed.

A SGN spokesman said: "We will return to complete the remaining section of work in Spring 2022 when gas pressure demands are significantly reduced.

"Due to the gas main diverting across the road, a full road closure will be required in order to keep everyone safe. We’re currently in the planning stages for this phase of work but we are considering overnight working, although the exact requirements are yet to be confirmed and will be published at a later date.

"We would like to take this opportunity to reassure you that we have been working closely with UK Government and public health bodies to make sure we’re working in line with expert advice during the coronavirus outbreak.

"We have extra safety precautions in place to protect our colleagues and our customers from catching or spreading the virus as we carry out our safety-critical project. There’s more information about our coronavirus plans, as well as other ways to contact us, on our website: sgn.co.uk/coronavirus"