WORK is well underway to replace sewer pipes in Kidderminster in a £1 million investment which will prevent future sewer flooding for residents in the town.

The Severn Trent Water work, which began in February at the Sainsbury’s Superstore in Carpet Traders Way Retail Park, is to replace 172 metres of pipe. The work is due to be completed by the early summer.

Paul Evans, from Severn Trent, said: “The main sewer serving this area of Kidderminster was constructed more than 100 years ago, and we have noticed that during heavy rainfall it’s struggling to cope.

“It’s really important for us to protect our customers’ homes from flooding, so in February we started a five month project to replace the old pipe with a brand new concrete one, which is stronger and more reliable.

“Part of the main sewer pipe that we are replacing, passes through the local Sainsbury’s Superstore car park, so we’ve had to take over a small area of the car park.

“Our contract partners, NMCNomenca, have worked hard to make sure we keep the disruption to a minimum, by tunnelling underneath the car park. This reduces disruption to Sainsbury’s, their customers – and not forgetting the trees and shrubs nearby.

“We are sorry for any inconvenience this work may be causing, but it’s really important to make sure that the sewers are reliable for our customers going forward.

“We will do all we can to help minimise disruption and keep everyone affected up to date with progress.

“We would like to thank Sainsbury’s and their customers, and ask the local community for their continued patience while we put the new pipe in place.

“But once all of the work is complete, the area will have a modern sewer that will last for many years to come.”