MOTORISTS are facing a traffic nightmare in Christchurch which could last months this autumn as engineers work to plug a leaking underground gas supply.
Purewell will be closed off to through traffic from Monday, September 15, as Transco works to replace a crumbling gas pipe, blocking off one of the main arteries in and out of the town for at least ten weeks.
Businesses along the road will remain open as usual, and there will be vehicle access during the project, but passing traffic will be diverted onto the A35 Christchurch by-pass - already one of the busiest and most congested roads in the Bournemouth conurbation, particularly during rush-hour periods.
The existing 600-metre cast iron pipe has reached the end of its working life, with rising complaints about escaping gas.
"We can assure residents and businesses that we will be working as quickly and efficiently as possible to keep disruption to a minimum," said Phil Bell, network officer for the scheme.
The scheme includes the relaying of new gas services to properties.
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