Market Drayton gas works postponed after complaints

Cheshire Street will now be closed for two days, starting on Sunday, March 15, instead of next week.

Market Drayton councillor Roger Hughes said the dates have been changed so as not to affect the town's market on a Wednesday.

He said: "The gas works need to close the road in order to connect a new premises.

"Originally a sign went up saying the road would be closed for three days – from Monday to Wednesday.

"This worried a lot of people as Cheshire Street is the main road used by the market on Wednesday.

"I rang the council who have contacted National Grid in order to change the day."

Mark Whittle, chairman of Market Drayton Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said he was concerned about the impact of the road closure on Market Drayton businesses and was concerned about the planned work later in the year.

He said: "We are disgusted that no financial packages have been given to the businesses that will be affected.

"I am extremely worried about the future planned major gas replacement works in the town if this is a sign of what is to come.

"Some businesses may lose a lot of money. With the larger road closures later in the year – we are concerned."

Later this year National Grid said it will be closing roads across Market Drayton to carry out essential low pressure mains replacements.

The scheme will take place along Shrewsbury Road and involves replacing iron gas pipes with polyethylene pipes.

A spokeswoman for National Grid said compensation packages for business were available to apply for and if applicable given out after the works are completed.

She added: "The work in Cheshire Street is a new gas supply being installed into a single property.

"It was due to be done this weekend after agreement with the council for the road closure.

"However, we have been asked to postpone the work temporarily. It has now been rescheduled for 15-17 March."