MAJOR work starts next Wednesday to replace the gas mains in three separate areas of Ipswich – which may cause traffic chaos.Gas pipeline operator, Transco, will be replacing mains in London Road, Ransomes Way and Sirdar Road for up to 12 weeks as part of a national programme.

By Amanda Cresswell

MAJOR work starts next Wednesday to replace the gas mains in three separate areas of Ipswich – which may cause traffic chaos.

Gas pipeline operator, Transco, will be replacing mains in London Road, Ransomes Way and Sirdar Road for up to 12 weeks as part of a national programme.

Nick Sides, Transco network manager for Suffolk, said leaflets have been given out informing people, adding: "Everything will be done to try and minimise disruption while essential work is carried out."

For 12 weeks temporary traffic lights will be used in London Road as 600 metres of metal main will be replaced from the back of Honeysuckle Gardens to near the allotments.

Work will take around 10 weeks to complete in Ransomes Way as 300 metres of metal main will be replaced though the industrial estate area. In Sirdar Road work is expected to take up to eight weeks.

"It may be necessary to use temporary traffic lights at some stage during the work," said Mr Sides.

"At all three locations homes and businesses directly affected by the work have received information letters."

The three projects are first of what will be an ongoing programme of gas work in Ipswich 2002.

The bulk of the work will be geared to a nationally agreed commitment to replace all medium pressure ductile iron mains by the end of 2002.

Information on other gas work in Ipswich will be released as schedules are agreed.