NORTHUMBRIAN Water is spending £350,000 to upgrade the sewer network in Leamside, near Durham.

The scheme will see 200 metres of new sewer pipe installed along sections of Pit House Lane, and 200 metres on land north of Jellicoe Terrace.

The work, which is being done by contractor Lumsden and Carroll, is expected to take about two months Temporary traffic lights will be in use on Pit House Lane from Monday, February 3, until Friday, March 21.

Northumbrian Water is investing £150m between 2010 and 2015 to help protect areas of the region that are prone to flooding.

Dave Groark, the company’s project manager for the scheme, said: “We appreciate the upset and devastation that flooding can cause, that is why reducing the risk to customers’ homes and businesses is one of our top priorities.

“Although we appreciate there will be some disruption in the short term, we hope customers will welcome the benefits and protection the scheme brings. We are working closely with Durham County Council to reduce the impact of the work and will do our best to minimise any inconvenience.”

Nobody from Northumbrian Water or Lumsden and Carroll will need access to homes in the area during the work.

Anyone who requires further advice or has any special requirements should ring Northumbrian Water on 0845 717 1100 or log on to www.nwl.co.uk.