A gas leak has led to more traffic woes and disrupted Dereham's market day after a road was forced to close for repairs.

Cadent are on the scene near The George Hotel in Dereham after responding to a call from a member of the public who smelt gas on Swaffham Road during the evening of January 25.

Traffic lights are in place as workmen undertake emergency repair work.

A spokesman for Cadent said: “Last night we responded to a report of a smell of gas in Swaffham Road, Dereham.

Dereham Times: Cadent are at Swaffham Road in Dereham for repair work, after the road was forced to close after reports from the public said they smelt gas in the areaCadent are at Swaffham Road in Dereham for repair work, after the road was forced to close after reports from the public said they smelt gas in the area (Image: Harry Clarke)

“Cadent engineers took immediate action to make everything safe and today we are working with specialist equipment to pinpoint the source within the local network as quickly as we can.

“Our work area is taking up a large part of the road and, unfortunately, we have had no other option than to close Swaffham Road from the junction of Quebec Road to Becclesgate. We know that this is far from ideal, but hope people understand the necessity for this.

“We appreciate your patience as we work as safely and as efficiently as we can to get this resolved as soon as possible.”

Dereham Times: Cadent are at Swaffham Road in Dereham for repair work, after the road was forced to close after reports from the public said they smelt gas in the areaCadent are at Swaffham Road in Dereham for repair work, after the road was forced to close after reports from the public said they smelt gas in the area (Image: Harry Clarke)

Breckland Councillor, Harry Clarke, said: “I didn’t see any notices this morning walking into town, but was alerted to these works by my fellow Withburga Councillor, Ray O'Callaghan.

“Having walked down there the contractors tell me it involves a gas leak, which needs urgent attention. The road is closed on both sides in and out of town and is a main route for residents, buses, and businesses.

“I’ve personally contacted some organisations I know to warn them and suggest alternative routes. I hope the county council will be putting information up on this, and the duration of works and alternative routes.”

This adds to traffic woes in the town, as Matsell Way is currently closed with planned work to improve the pedestrian crossing. A signed diversion is in place.

If you smell gas, please act immediately and call the gas emergency service on 0800 111 999.

Dereham Times: Breckland Councillor, Harry ClarkeBreckland Councillor, Harry Clarke (Image: Archant)