RESIDENTS and businesses are being invited to hear about ongoing work by Wales and West Utilities (WWU) to upgrade the gas mains network in the Watchet and Williton area.

A drop-in session will be held in Watchet Visitor Centre, in Harbour Road, between 9.30 am and 5 pm on Monday, May 18, when they can view plans and direct any questions to the project team.

The utilities firm is investing more than £1.2 million during the next year to upgrade nearly four miles of gas pipes in the area to ensure a safe and reliable supply for about 700 customers.

WWU project manager Roxanne Whittaker said: “The work is vital to ensuring gas continues to flow safely and reliably to homes and businesses across the area, helping to keep people warm for decades to come.

“We would like to see members of the local community at our drop-in event so that we can share plans for the work.

“We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future.

“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of this community.

“Whether it is heating your home, making the family dinner, or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.

“This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport green gases in the future.”

WWU said it was working closely with Somerset Council to manage any necessary traffic measures.