WORK on a £500,000 scheme aiming to tackle flooding in the Longford and Orford areas is 'well underway'.

Construction of the new Dallam Pumping Station is 'progressing well' and due for completion in early February.

Coming at a cost of £477,000, the project involves the demolition of the existing drainage system outfall into Dallam Brook and the construction of a new pumping station.

Three new pumps are being installed in order to assist with the discharge of water from the drainage system into Dallam Brook.

And works are now 'entering their final stages', with the outfall chamber now demolished and construction of the new pump station chamber and fit-out of the internal pipework underway.

The pumps have also been manufactured and will be ready for installation in the coming weeks.

Streets including Densham Avenue, Gough Avenue and Northway have regularly suffered from flooding for years.

Warrington Borough Council’s executive board member for highways, transportation and public realm Cllr Hans Mundry said: “The new pumping station will make a huge difference to Orford and Longford residents – particularly those who live in the Densham Avenue, Gough Avenue and Northway areas – who have faced flooding issues for many years.

“We’ve worked closely with local people, United Utilities and the Environment Agency to develop these plans, and I’m delighted that work on the project is progressing so well.

"It’s a great example of how we can work with partners to minimise the risk of flooding in our town."

WBC has contributed £100,000 to the project, with £177,000 in funding coming from United Utilities and £200,000 being given by the Environment Agency.