WELSH Water has completed two investment schemes worth £1.2million in Chester which will alleviate flooding and deliver environmental benefits to the surrounding area.

The first scheme focused on increasing capacity of the local wastewater network in The Groves area to enable it to deal with larger volumes of stormwater during periods of heavy rainfall.Š

Some properties in the area have previously experienced internal and external flooding during such conditions but the work carried out will help alleviate the risk of this happening in future.

A second scheme was carried out in Dee Lane and will provide a boost to the environment by improving water quality in the River Dee.Š

The scheme will reduce the number of times unscreened storm water is released into the river during heavy rain which will benefit its aquatic life.

Due to the complex nature of this scheme, it was necessary for a series of traffic management measures to be in place for work to be carried out safely.

This was planned in coordination with other utility works in the Chester area to minimise disruption on residents, commuters and visitors.

Clara Hughes, Welsh Water’s communications representative, said: “We realise the distress wastewater flooding can cause and these investment schemes reflect our commitment to tackling this problem and bringing benefits to the local environment too.

“We would like to thank local residents for bearing with us while this essential work was carried out and in particular thank the owners of the Boathouse Inn, Grosvenor Rowing Club, Royal Rowing Club, King’s School, Riverside Cafe and Blue Moon cafe for their co-operation while the work was ongoing.”

Welsh Water liaised with relevant bodies, including Cheshire West and Chester Council Area Highways Office and Environment Agency during the project’s planning stages.

Welsh Water is investing heavily and working hard to ensure top quality services to all the communities it serves. The company is investing £1.2 billion in its water and sewerage network between 2010 and 2015.

It is a ‘not-for-profit company’ which has been owned by Glas Cymru since 2001. Welsh Water does not have shareholders, and any financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of customers.