WORK to protect homes in north Durham from flooding is to begin next week.

Northumbrian Water is investing £700,000 to increase the capacity of the sewerage network in the Benfieldside Road area of Consett.

The work will protect 15 homes on Benfieldside Road, Surtees Place and Queens Way that have previously flooded.

The three-month scheme, which will begin on Monday June 10, will involve upsizing 345 metres of sewer pipe at Benfieldside Road, Moorlands, Newstead Rise, St. Cuthbert’s Avenue, Western Hill and Queens Way.

The larger pipework will hold an additional 54,000 litres of storm water in times of heavy rainfall.

Brian Ford, Northumbrian Water’s project manager for the scheme, said: “Reducing the risk of flooding is one of our top priorities.

“Although we appreciate there will be disruption in the short term, we hope customers will welcome the benefits and protection the scheme brings.

“We will make every effort to complete the job as quickly as possible.”

It will be necessary to have road and footpath closures in place on the roads where the water company is working between June and August. Residents living nearby will receive detailed information in writing before the work begins.

Construction traffic will need access to the areas where the work is being carried out, and the site compound, located off St Cuthbert’s Avenue.

It is unusual for anyone from Northumbrian Water to require access into customers’ homes while the work is being carried out and customers should be vigilant of bogus callers claiming to be from the water company.

Customers who require further advice or have any special requirements should ring Northumbrian Water on 0845-717-1100 or log on to www.nwl.co.uk