WORK to upgrade 1.2km of ageing metal gas mains in York city centre will close High Ousegate, Pavement, Parliament Street and Coppergate to traffic.

The £750,000 nine-month project will be carried out in seven phases to minimise city centre disruption, and is scheduled for completion in March 2014, Northern Gas said.

High Ousegate will be closed to traffic from September 2 to November 29, Pavement and Coppergate will be closed to traffic from September 16 to October 13.

Temporary bus stops will be installed however members of the public travelling by bus may experience minor delays while the road closures are in place, Northern Gas said. Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

Garry Farnhill, customer operations area manager, Northern Gas Networks said; “We’re very happy with the way the project is progressing so far and would like to thank everyone for their patient and understanding.

“We will continue to keep our customers informed throughout by holding community forums at key stages of the work. Our next forum will be held tomorrow from 5.30pm to 7pm at The Black Swan Inn in Peasholme Green, providing an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions or raise any concerns.”

Work will continue in Goodramgate and Monkgate Bar in the winter and St Maurice’s Road in the spring.