A £257,000 scheme to lay new gas pipes will mean the closure of a road near Wellington this weekend and the following weekend.

Part of the scheme means Taunton Road will be closed at its junctions with the Chelston Roundabout and Chelston Road.

Wales and West Utilities say the work is essential to keep the gas flowing to heat homes and power businesses ‘so local people are kept safe and warm for generations to come.’

Joe Phillips, the utilities programme controller for Wellington, said in a statement: ““In agreement with Somerset County Council, and in order to keep the local community, road users and our colleagues safe while we work, Taunton Road will be closed for two weekends (January 11-12 and 18-19), at its junctions with the Chelston Roundabout and Chelston Road. A diversion route will be clearly signposted.

“Barring any unforeseen circumstances,

we expect to complete our work by Friday,

January 26.

“We have worked closely with Somerset County Council to plan our work and before starting we contacted homes and businesses in the area letting them know what to expect.

“We know working on roads like these is not ideal, but this work really is essential to keep the gas flowing to heat homes and power businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future and can play its part in delivering reliable and affordable green energy.

“Our customer service team is ready to take your call if you have any questions about our work. You can contact them on freephone 0800 912 2999 or [email protected]. Alternatively, you can contact us on Twitter @WWUtilities or Facebook.com/WWUtilities.”