Last updated 14:04, Monday, 27 October 2008

A £1.5M scheme to improve water and sewage systems in Ambleside will begin next month.

The work will involve laying a new sewer and clean water main on the A593 through Clappersgate.

Engineers from United Utilities will carry out the programme, which will replace a burst water pipe as well as allowing more homes to move from septic tanks to mains sewerage.

The work will be done simultaneously to minimise disruption to local residents.

Jerry McCarthy, United Utilities project coordinator, said: “By getting local homes connected to the main sewer, we can prevent sewage from septic tanks leaching into the River Brathay, which is great news for the environment.

“We’ll also be taking the opportunity to replace the old water pipes serving the village, which have reached the end of their lifespan. This will result in a more reliable clean water service.”

The sewer work will begin at Badger Wheel and wind its way underneath the Bronwen Nixon footbridge, under the River Brathay and along the side of Ambleside Rugby Club.

The new clean water pipeline will run from Kilngarth Cottages to the Bronwen Nixon footbridge.

The work is expected to be completed by March, next year.

Temporary traffic lights and speed restrictions will be in place.