A COSTLY and lengthy project to upgrade metal gas pipes along a busy Newton Abbot road got underway this week.

Workers have started replacing the old pipes along the A382 – which links Newton and Bovey Tracey – with plastic ones.

The scheme – costing £170,000 – started on Tuesday and ‘barring any unforeseen circumstances’ is expected to finish on October 4.

Motorists heading along the Exeter Road stretch of the A382 are being warned of delays as temporary traffic lights have been installed.

Roxanne Whittaker, from Wales and West Utilities, explained: ‘In agreement with Devon County Council and to keep the local community, road users and our colleagues safe while we work, two-way traffic lights are in place just before and after the Jetty Marsh Road junction.

‘We hope to avoid working on the Jetty Marsh Road roundabout, but, if necessary, this will require further traffic management. We will keep local people updated.’

Bosses at the company are trying to minimise disruption by working during school summer holidays, but are urging commuters to allow extra time or find alternative routes.

Ms Whittaker added: ‘We are working hard to make sure that the work is completed as safely and as quickly as possible, and we really appreciate the patience of local people while we are working.

‘We know working on roads like these is not ideal, but this work really is essential to keep the gas flowing to heat homes and power businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future and can play its part in delivering reliable and affordable green energy.’

Anyone with questions about the scheme or concerns should contact Wales and West by calling 0800 9122999 or email [email protected].