MORE than £11 million is to be spent on improving York and North and East Yorkshire’s gas network by replacing aging underground pipes.

The package – totalling £91.5 million across Yorkshire – has been announced by the county’s gas distribution company Northern Gas Networks, which says it will ensure a “safe and reliable supply” for decades.

The firm will spend £3.3 million in York, £4.1 million in the rest of North Yorkshire and £4.2 million in East Yorkshire replacing a total of 103km of old metal gas mains with modern plastic replacements during 2012/13, with emergency repairs also being carried out.

“This major investment package is good news for families and businesses in Yorkshire as the new pipes are far more durable and will serve the area well for decades to come,” said Howard Forster, Northern Gas Networks’ director of programme investment.

“Customers will be kept informed of where and when schemes will be taking place throughout the year and we will work closely with local communities to minimise any inconvenience arising from the work.”