Essential works to replace ageing gas pipes in Whitchurch are set to be delayed after discussion between town businesses and Cadent.

The works were set for July 23, with the High Street closed from Benjamin's on the corner of High Street and Green End up until Pepper Street.

However, Cadent and its contractors Balfour Beatty have confirmed that after consulting with businesses affected by the road closure – for vehicles only – they will put the proposed works back.

A date has-not-yet been confirmed but it is not expected to be a delay longer than six weeks.

Cadent and Balfour Beatty are still in Whitchurch throughout Friday, July 6 with stalls in the Civic Centre and the market until 7pm.

A Cadent spokesman said: "On jobs like these, we always work closely with businesses and residents to reduce the impact of our work on everyday life.

"We met business owners and the town council again this week and they asked if we could move this job to another time.

"We’ve agreed the High Street scheme won’t start now on 23 July, but will happen later in the year.

"As advertised, we are still on the market today, and later, to 7pm, in the civic centre to explain the job and what it entails."