A MAJOR £300,000 project to replace gas mains in Widnes has started.

National Grid says the work will secure supplies for homes and businesses for around 80 years.

More than 800 metres of cast iron main will be replaced with plastic pipes.

The work is expected to last until the end of March.

Traffic delays are likely as the work is carried out in Lower House Lane, Ditton Road, and Moor Lane roundabout.

The slip road from the roundabout at Ditton Road towards Liverpool will be closed from 7pm on Friday, January 25,  to 6am on Monday, January 28, as will the exit slip road leading to the same roundabout. 

Work on Ditton Road roundabout starts on January 21st and the roundabout will be down to one lane for approximately six weeks.

Four-way lights will be in place at the roundabout outside the Halton Council depot in Lower House Lane until 14th January, followed by three-way lights for a further three weeks.