Motorists are being warned that a major Wokingham road will be closing for more than two months.

Easthampstead Road will be closed for an estimated nine weeks for gas works described as 'critical'. 

This substantial project aims to replace old metal gas pipes with modern PE pipes, in a continuation of work SGN began on Monday, July 8.

The local gas distribution company confirmed they will be starting this work on September 2. 

A spokesperson for SGN articulated: "We’ve been replacing the old metal gas pipes along Heathlands Road with modern PE pipes since Monday, July 8.

"This essential project will now continue along Easthampstead Road to further enhance the safety and reliability of our gas supply network.

"In addition to replacing the old metal pipes, we will also be diverting sections of the gas main in preparation for the south Wokingham distributor road project.

"This proactive approach is designed to minimise future disruptions, ensuring that once this work is complete there will be no need for us to return at a later date."

Engineering work is envisaged to commence at the junction of Heathlands Road and Easthampstead Road for the initial two weeks period.

For everyone’s safety, this junction will be shut down during the operations.

However, once operations move past the junction, the area will be reopened leaving the remainder of Easthampstead Road closed for an anticipated seven weeks stretch from Heathlands Road up to Redlake Lane.

Entry to residences and enterprises will be maintained throughout the period.

Additionally, a signed detour route for northbound and southbound vehicles will be implemented.

Northbound commuters are advised to use Old Wokingham Road, Waterloo Road, William Heelas Way, London Road and Peach Street, while southbound travellers will use Peach Street, Broad Street, Rectory Road, Wiltshire Road, London Road, William Heelas Way, Waterloo Road and Old Wokingham Road.

SGN has encouraged locals to consult with bus companies regarding any schedule changes and to advise visitors and deliveries about the new route.

The spokesperson underlined: "We understand people can get frustrated by roadworks and therefore we only use traffic management that we feel is efficient enough to complete these works safely for ourselves and the public.

"Thank you for your patience during this work, and we’re sorry for any inconvenience caused."