A ROAD has been closed because of a gas leak.

A 10-metre section of Lowes Barn Bank, from its junction with the A690 in Neville’s Cross, Durham is closed because of the leak.

Northern Gas Work has been carrying out repairs to the gas main at the bottom of Neville’s Cross Bank.

The urgent repair work started on Thursday and the additional closure of Lowes Barn Bank was announced last night, as a result of an “extended leak”.

The original closure prevented Lowes Barn Bank being accessed from Neville’s Cross Bank.

Another order has been made to permit emergency gas repair works to be carried out from today.

It will be in place for a maximum of 21 days and means the junction cannot be used in either direction.

The diversion route for vehicular traffic is available from western point of restriction in a north easterly direction on A690 Nevilles Cross Bank, then southerly on A167 Darlington Road to the junction with Lowes Barn Bank to eastern side of the restriction, and vice versa.

Northern Gas Work says the work is being carried out in line with Government guidelines on safe distancing

A spokesperson said: “To ensure the safety of colleagues, customers and the local community at this time, the work is being carried out exclusively in the street, observing strict Government guidelines for safe distance working and following health and safety guidance. 

“The project has been planned in collaboration with Durham County Council.”