THE entirety of Comiston Road in the south of Edinburgh has been closed off by engineers working on “emergency” repairs following a gas leak.
Engineers from SGN (previously Scotia Gas Networks) arrived on the scene yesterday evening after reports of a gas leak near a Shell garage and fully closed the road around 6:30pm.
Road users were asked to expect delays in the area and have been provided with signed diversion routes.
The road is expected to be closed for upwards of one week, with repairs slated to be completed by 30 October.
SGN engineers had hoped to complete the works with sets of temporary traffic lights, but it soon became obvious that a full road closure would be necessary due to gas readings in the middle of the carriageway.
The entire road, from the junction with Greenbank Crescent all the way down to the junction with the Oxgangs Road and Frogston Road West, further south, has been cordoned off.
The gas leak incident took place yesterday evening between the Shell garage on Comiston Road and the junction with Greenbank Crescent.
It is unclear what exactly caused the gas leak, but it was serious enough to precipitate a hasty response from SGN.
SGN have diverted southbound traffic via Greenbank Crescent, Oxgangs Avenue, Oxgangs Road North and Oxgangs Road, while northbound traffic will be redirected the other way along the same route.
Simon Collins, spokesperson for gas company SGN, said: “We’re currently carrying out emergency repairs on Comiston Road, just south of its junction with Greenbank Crescent.
“While we initially hoped to complete the work under temporary traffic lights, further investigation has found gas readings in the middle of the carriageway, and so a full road closure is needed to ensure everyone’s safety.
“Comiston Road is closed in both directions. Southbound traffic will be diverted via Greenbank Crescent, Oxgangs Avenue, Oxgangs Road North and Oxgangs Road.
“Northbound traffic will follow a signed diversion via Oxgangs Road, Oxgangs Road North, Oxgangs Avenue and Greenbank Crescent.
“We’re aiming to complete repairs and lift the road closure by Thursday 30 October. We appreciate everyone’s patience and support while we carry out this essential work.”
Lothian Buses announced that their 11, 15, and N11 services will be diverted in line with the SGN’s signed diversions for the week that works are ongoing.
In a statement, the company said: “Due to emergency gas works, part of Comiston Road will be closed from 1830 hrs on Wednesday 22nd October for approximately 1 week.”
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