DRIVERS on the A82 can expect delays for up to six months with major gas works set to begin in Dumbarton on Sunday, October 12.

Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) is investing £250,000 in an upgrade of the pipe network in the Bonhill Road area.

The project is expected to finish in March 2015, with most of the work taking place in residential streets.

However, warning signs have already gone up on the A82 between Garhake Road and Greenhead warning drivers to expect disruption.

Graham Otto, Scotland Gas Networks team manager, said: “We would like to apologise for inconvenience caused by our essential works. We appreciate that roadworks can be frustrating for road users we will do everything we can to minimise disruption.” “We will be working seven days a week and extended hours to complete our works as quickly as possible.” Work will begin at the junction of Stirling Road (A82) with Garshake Road and Round Riding Road, with this part of the project lasting approximately three weeks.

A new modern plastic polyethylene (PE) gas mains pipe, which has a minimum lifespan of around 80 years, will be laid to reinforce the gas network to meet increased demand, and ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to Dumbarton and surrounding areas.

Due to the location of the existing gas mains, road work teams will work across the junction and to minimise disruption to traffic as much as possible, the work will have to be carried out in four phases.

For public safety, throughout phases one, two and three there will be no access into Round Riding Road from Stirling Road. Therefore, northbound traffic will not be able to turn left in to Round Riding Road and southbound traffic will not be able to turn right into Round Riding Road.

As part of the planning process SGN has met with Scotland Transerv, West Dunbartonshire Council and Police Scotland. Ther firm has confirmed these lines of communication will remain open and the community will be kept informed throughout the course of the roadworks.

As this is a major route for traffic in and out of Dumbarton, SGN have said they will be working seven-days-a-week and extended hours to complete the works as quickly as possible. It’s been advised that commuters on this road allow some extra time for their journeys as there could be major disruptions.

Dumbarton and Vale MSP Jackie Baillie told the Reporter: “Clearly this is a very busy junction in a residential area so there will be limited scope for night-time working.

“I would encourage Scotland Gas Networks to continue its dialogue with the community, police and the council to make sure the work is completed as quickly as possible and with the least possible disruption for motorists and residents.”