A town centre is facing up to six months of roadworks as part of a £415,000 scheme to upgrade the gas network.

Starting on Monday, engineers from Northern Gas Networks (NGN) will be carrying out the project which is estimated to last for 24 weeks.

In order to complete the work the company will need to close off three major roads in Aspatria intermittently for the duration of the scheme. They will be Outgang Road, St Mungos Park and Arkeleby Road.

Diversions will be in place.

The scheme will see the area's ageing metal gas mains, situated in Station Road, upgraded.

In total more than two miles of the existing gas mains will be replaced with more durable plastic pipes which NGN says will "ensure the continued, safe and reliable supply of gas to customers in Aspatria for years to come".

A company spokeswoman said: "It’s expected these works may cause some delays to journey times, so motorists are advised to leave extra time for travel during the lane closure.

"NGN will endeavour to complete these works as soon as possible, and will provide updates on progress throughout the project.

"Shops and businesses in the area will remain open as usual."

The project has been carefully planned in conjunction with Cumbria County Council.

Matty McBride, construction services area manager for Northern Gas Networks, said: “We have worked closely with the county council to carefully plan these works and will be doing all we can to minimise disruption to customers.

“We will endeavour to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible and will keep customers updated as the work progresses.

“We would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience caused during these works and thank everyone for their patience and support while we carry out this essential upgrade.”

NGN’s customer care officers have been door-knocking local homes and businesses to make customers are aware of the project.

A drop-in session was held on Wednesday giving residents a chance to quiz NGN officials.

The Station Road project will be registered as a "considerate constructors site" which should bring in measures to ensure minimal impact to the environment, customers and the community.

Stevie Sharp, who is the company's community care officer will be working closely with the schools in Aspatria, and other local community and environment projects within the area.

* For more information contact the customer care team on 0800 040 7766, option 3 or email customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone who smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.