Disruption on Honiton High Street set to last two months, as Wales and West Utilities work to upgrade the gas network in the town.

The first phase of work will begin on 5 February and, barring any engineering difficulties, will finish by the end of April. This first phase involves upgrading over 550 metres of gas pipes and is essential to keep the gas flowing safely and reliably to local homes and businesses, keeping people warm for generations to come.

A second phase of work is currently planned for next year.

To plan the work Wales & West Utilities has liaised with Devon County Council and it has been agreed that parking suspensions along High Street will be in place as the works progress.

Wales & West Utilities Roxanne Whittaker is managing this gas pipe upgrade work. She said: "While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Honiton. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.

"We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future. We’ll have a team of gas engineers on site throughout the project to make sure our work is completed as safely and as quickly as possible while keeping disruption to a minimum.

"This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future."