Delays to rush hour traffic on Digswell Hill, just outside Welwyn Garden City, are likely to last until next month, gas engineers have admitted.
Three-way traffic lights were installed on the B197 next to Sherrardspark Wood on February 24, to allow the National Grid to replace a 100-metre stretch of metal pipework.
Hertfordshire Highways has approved the work until March 31, but National Grid spokesman Anthony Quarrel told the Welwyn Hatfield Times it would probably have to apply for an extension until “early April”.
He confirmed the work was necessary because an old gas pipe beneath the verge was leaking, but said there was no danger to the public.
Mr Quarrel said: “Health and safety is our highest priority. There is no risk to the public, but if anyone has concerns, they should call us on 0800-111999.”
He promised the engineers would minimise disruption by removing the traffic lights when they were not at work.
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