MOTORISTS are being warned to expect traffic delays in and around Longridge over the next few weeks as a gas-pipe replacement scheme gets under way.

Transco, which maintains the UK's gas network, is spending £150,000 digging up iron gas pipes and replacing them with plastic ones in nine streets around the town.

Fairsnape Avenue, Jeffery Avenue, Parlick Avenue, Market Place, Risedale Drive, Copster Drive, Darwen Close, Brindle Close and Highfield Drive will all be affected during the work, which is expected to start this week.

The pipes being put in place have a life span of around 60 years.