A ROAD in Christchurch will be closed until the weekend before Christmas while a gas main with ‘multiple leaks’ is replaced.

Walkford Road closed this week as urgent work began to replace old metal pipes with new plastic pipes.

The replacement pipes will be installed between Ringwood Road and Chewton Farm Road.

SGN’s contractors JDT will be carrying out the work, which began on Monday and is scheduled to finish on Friday, December 22.

The gas company said: “This work is urgent as we’re unable to continue to repair the leaks on this gas main and replacing the pipes is the only option.”

The work will be carried out in three phases, to minimise disruption. Each closure will take place once the previous closure has been completed.

In the first phase, Walkford Road will be closed from its junction with Wyndham Road to its junction with Holly Lane.

The second phase will see Walkford Road closed from its junction with Ringwood Road to its junction with Hurst Close.

The final phase will see the road closed between the junction with Hurst Close and Chewton Farm Road.

Chewton Farm Road will be closed at its junction for the duration of the work, with no vehicule access in or out of the road from Walkford Road.

The Walkford pub and local businesses will remain open as usual.

However, bus routes will be affected by the work, with the gas company advising passengers check with the bus provider for the latest changes to the service.

A diversion is in place during the work, taking vehicles along Gore Road, Stem Lane, onto the B3055, along the A35 and back onto Ringwood Road.

Full emergency access will be maintained, and access for residents will be maintained, depending on site safety.

SGN added: “We’re sorry for the inconvenience our work may cause and thank you for your patience and understanding.”