Major gas works stopped amid traffic delays

A massive scheme to replace underground gas pipes in a Devon town has been pulled after roadworks caused drivers to be stuck in traffic for hours.

Wales and West Utilities began a second phase of work in Barnstaple on Monday but drivers were caught up in traffic jams around the town.

A spokesman for the firm said: "Due to the unprecedented impact on local transport, and with schools due to return next week, we have taken the decision to suspend our works to reduce traffic congestion in the area."

Wales and West apologised for the disruption and said the work would now be "put on hold, and re-planned at a later date following further consultation".

Frank Biederman, Liberal Democrat councillor for the area on Devon County Council, said there was "no plan that is not going to cause disruption" but he was pleased "common sense has prevailed".

He said: "We can put heads together and hopefully come up with something that's workable and get the gas sorted."

Wales and West was replacing gas mains along Sticklepath Hill and Bickington Road, and had agreed a lane closure and one-way traffic system with Devon County Council.

That one-way system was reversed on Tuesday to try to deal with the traffic congestion but major problems persisted.

The work was due to continue until mid-November but will now be rescheduled.

Wales and West said its work across the wider area would continue as planned.

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