10/04/2008

River water quality will be further improved by a £1 million project to upgrade a section of sewerage network in Newcastle.

The four-month Northumbrian Water scheme, which is to be completed by the middle of May, has involved installing 250 metres of new sewer pipe and renewing two combined sewer overflows in the Denton Dene and Sugley Dene areas.  It will improve water quality in the River Tyne and the Denton Burn.

Combined sewer overflows are designed, and consented by the Environment Agency, to discharge wastewater into watercourses in times of very heavy rainfall to protect properties and surrounding land from flooding. 

Brian Ford, Northumbrian Water’s project manager, said:  “We are pleased that this improvement work has progressed well and the two combined sewer overflows being upgraded will also now be screened.  This will vastly improve the quality of water which is discharged in times of heavy rainfall into the River Tyne and Denton Burn.”

As part of this essential work, it will be necessary to close a section of Slatyford Lane near the junction with West Road from Monday, April 14 2008 for up to four weeks.  It is hoped that this work can be completed in a shorter period of time.  A diversion will be in place directing traffic along Silver Lonnen. 

The water company has been working with Newcastle City Council, Nexus and Stagecoach to ensure everything is done to keep inconvenience to a minimum.

Customers who have any queries or concerns relating to this improvement work should contact Northumbrian Water on 0845 717 1100.

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For further information contact Cara Hall on 0191 301 6720.