MORE than £700,000 will be spent on fixing the problem of overflowing sewers underneath Wharton Road, Winsford.

United Utilities admits the project will cause disruption and could exacerbate traffic problems, but has vowed the long term benefits will “make it worthwhile”.

Several areas on and around the mile-long stretch have been hit by flat floods in recent years because the sewer pipes, which are about 1ft in diameter at present, are too small to deal with heavy downpours and often overflow.

Helen Wilson, of United Utilities, told the Chronicle: “This is a major investment for the Winsford area and it will come as good news for householders along Wharton Road who have experienced the awful problem of flooding from sewers.”

The work is to get under way on March 3 and will be carried out in two phases. The main areas affected will be near the junction with Crook Lane and between 146 Wharton Road and the junction with School Road.

United Utilities said the scheme is expected to be finished by the end of June, and replacement pipes will be up to five times as big in some areas.

Spokeswoman Helen Wilson added: “We hope residents and drivers will be patient while the work takes place and we’ll do what we can to minimise inconvenience. The long term quality of life improvements for residents will make it worthwhile.”