Businesses and residents are being warned about a lengthy road closure for essential gas mains replacement.

Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will close the High Street to traffic between Mulgrave Road and the junction with Sutton Court Road for ten weeks from Tuesday March 16.

Transport for London will divert bus routes for the duration of the works and SGN will install warning and diversion signs in the town centre and on approaching roads.

A council spokesman said the works are to replace old metal pipes with new plastic mains and do not form part of the council’s regeneration of the town centre.

He said while the council was not carrying out the works it would be closely monitoring the contractors to make sure they are completed as quickly as possible.

Councillor Sean Brennan, Leader of Sutton Council, said: “We are extremely concerned about the affect this work will have on local businesses and will be pressing the utility company to complete this work as quickly as possible.

“If possible motorists are advised to avoid the area for the duration of the works or look out for information boards giving details of diversion routes.”

Details call: Southern Gas Networks on 020 8687 3510.