THE final phase of a major project to replace a one-kilometre section of gas pipeline under the A592 on Rayrigg Road is to commence tomorrow (January 2).

The work by Cadent Gas will result in the northbound lane just after Windermere Lake Viewpoint Car Park to the roundabout at the junction with Ambleside Road being closed until the end of the month.

Traffic will instead be diverted through Windermere and the lane heading south towards Bowness will remain open.

It comes after Cadent decided to call time on a metallic pipe that has been helping to keep local homes warm since 1953.

Mark Syers, Head of Investment Planning Office (North West), Cadent, said: “Our job is to keep gas flowing to heat homes, schools, offices and many other buildings the local area, as well as future-proof the network ready for greener gases.

“This part of the network has operated for 70 years. We’ve become too frequent a visitor in recent years, with our teams carrying out essential repairs.

“This upgrade will bring an end to that, ensuring everyone gets a safe, reliable supply well into the future.

“We appreciate this means another period of disruption, and our teams will work as quickly as they safely can to complete the work.”