Discovery of fuel stops roadworks

2:14pm Wednesday 23rd July 2008

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ROADWORKS in Bourne End will be halted after suspected fuel was found where the work was carried out.

Temporary traffic lights were set up in The Parade, Bourne End, at the beginning of this month but work on the gas mains had to cease almost immediately after a substance was found.

Samples have been sent for analysis and the National Grid, which is carrying out the work, is waiting for the results before continuing.

But there is no risk to residents according to a National Grid spokesman.

To reduce the effect on motorists, the hole will be back-filled and it is hoped the road will re-open this weekend.

Sarah Harris, press officer for National Grid, said: "We have taken some ground samples for testing and that will form part of our planning but nothing has been confirmed at this stage.

"The work has fixed the leak but there needs to be permanent work done. We will plan that at a later date."

"There is no danger to any of the residents."

Three-way traffic lights were set up on The Parade between the junction of Cores End Road and Station Road, to the junction with Wharf Lane.

The area has had a number of gas leaks in the past few years and the decision was taken to fix the problem permanently.

It was estimated when work began that it may take six to eight weeks for the whole project to be completed.

And Bob Evans, of Bucks County Council, said the work may still be completed on time.