WORK to replace gas pipelines in the centre of Abergavenny has been unavoidably delayed and is now unlikely to finish until the middle of December.

Melanie Hole, of Wales and West Utilities told The Chronicle, “Unfortunately we will not be able to finish our essential work in Abergavenny at the end of next week as planned.

“We have experienced significant engineering difficulties on this job, in particular the ground conditions in the area and other, unrelated utility equipment laid in the way of our new gas pipe.

“Barring any further engineering difficulties, we now anticipate that the work will be completed by December 11.

“We have agreed with the local authority that we will do this work now, before the area is regenerated ahead of the Eisteddfod in 2016. All local businesses are open as usual while we are working and we will accommodate trade deliveries. We’ve also visited businesses to understand their individual needs and requirements.”

Ms Hole added that to accommodate the Christmas light switch on during the weekend, the trenches outside the market hall were filled in.

“So we can work safely, Cross Street is currently closed. This will be reopened on 25 November. A diversion route is clearly signposted. Frogmore Street will then be closed for two weeks.

“Due to the ground conditions in the area, it is not yet possible to confirm when Frogmore Street will be closed – we will keep the local community updated.

“This essential work is part of our multi-million-pound 30-year mains replacement programme, across Wales and the south west of England, which began in 2002. Old metal pipes within 30 metres of buildings are being replaced with new long-lasting plastic pipes with a lifespan of more than 80 years. 

“I know that working in communities is disruptive and we do try to keep this to a minimum. This work will support Abergavenny now and into the future, and we’d like to thank local people for bearing with us while we are working,” said Ms Hole.