DISRUPTION caused by gas pipe upgrading in Silsden must be accepted by residents, says a local councillor.

Adrian Naylor said he accepted the £60,000 project, which will see part of Kirkgate closed for four weeks, was essential.

He said: “The work has to be done so a small amount of disruption will have to be endured for the safe delivery of gas in that area.

“What has been put in place, while not ideal, appears to be the best solution to the problem.”

Coun Naylor's comments followed a public meeting hosted by Northern Gas Networks to inform townspeople about the work.

Staff have been visiting businesses along Kirkgate to pass on information and answer questions.

Northern Gas Networks announced it would replace more than 200 metres of existing metal gas mains with more durable plastic pipes.

Work was starting this week (August 4), along Kirkgate, between the junctions of New Road and Briggate.

A section of Kirkgate was closed between the junction with Bolton Road and New Road, and a diversion route signposted.

Northern Gas Networks said businesses remain open, and access would be maintained for members of the public.

Coun Naylor, a district and town councillor, said: “Northern Gas Networks representatives went door-to-door to businesses explaining where the diversion would be."

Coun Naylor was glad the gas pipe replacement was being carried out during the summer holidays when there would be less traffic through Silsden.

He said he understood a section of the main road through Silsden was due to be resurfaced by Bradford Council in the near future.