TRAFFIC heading into East Lothian from Edinburgh could face a lengthy diversion, after a major road closure was announced.

Gas distribution company SGN will shortly be starting work to upgrade the local gas supply network on Milton Road East, Edinburgh.

As part of a £360,000 project to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local community, the existing metal gas mains and services are to be replaced with modern plastic pipe.

Following discussions with the City of Edinburgh Council, the project will start on Monday, January 9, and last for approximately 15 weeks.

The company will be working on Milton Road East between its junction with Sir Harry Lauder Road/Milton Link and the entrance to Edinburgh College (Milton Road Campus).

For the duration of the project, the road will be closed to eastbound traffic.

A signed diversion route will be in place for motorists via the A1, the B6415 Old Craighall Road, Monktonhall Terrace, Eskview Terrace, Olivebank Road, Mall Avenue, Bridge Street, North High Street, Edinburgh Road and Eastfield.

Due to a low bridge, HGVs will be diverted through Wallyford, North High Street, Edinburgh Road and Milton Road East.

During the project, SGN will also be working on Queen’s Bay Crescent, South Morton Street and Brunstane Road South. Parking suspensions will be in place.

SGN project manager Matthew Ferguson said: “We’ve worked closely with the local authorities in planning this work and we will be doing everything we can to limit disruption during our essential project.

“We appreciate that roadworks can be frustrating; however, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means once the work has been completed, local homes and businesses will enjoy the benefits of a continued safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come.”