A massive project to replace the ageing gas pipes in Eton High Street will cause disruption until the summer.

The Cadent Gas company says tough new pipes that should last into the 22nd century are being installed now to ensure safe and reliable gas supplies for cooking and heating.

A public drop in event where people can find out more about the work is being held on Thursday, January 16 in the Eton Town Council Building at 102 High St, Eton from 6pm to 8pm.

The work is planned to be in two phases.

Phase one will close the road between Windsor Bridge and the junction with Eton Court for between 10 to 12 weeks.

Phase two will see two way traffic management from Eton Court to Eton College for a period of eight to 10 weeks.

Where possible the new pipes will be inserted into the old gas mains which dramatically reduces the size of excavations needed and duration of the work. However due to the size and position of some of the existing gas mains, engineers will need to dig old style trenches to lay some section of new pipe.

Project Manager Richard Penny said: “We’ve carefully planned our work in close discussion with the local authorities and information has also been sent to local homes and businesses.

“We’re doing all we can to ensure this essential work is delivered with as little disruption to the local area as possible.”

He added: “Our work will help ensure people in Eton keep on enjoying safe and reliable gas for cooking and heating in the future.

“I’d encourage locals who have any questions about the work to come and visit us at the public exhibition on Thursday 16 January.”

For more information on the project call 0800 096 5678, more information on Cadent’s gas mains replacement work can also be found at www.bettergaspipes.co.uk