NINE weeks into a £1.15m scheme to upgrade surface water drainage in Corbridge, and a kilometre of new pipe has already been installed.

Northumberland County Council says work is progressing well on the new flood prevention measures for the village, which involves an upgrade of the drainage around Station Road and Tinklers Bank.

A new outfall into the River Tyne will run through Tynedale Rugby Club, replacing the existing culvert which was badly damaged during Storm Desmond, along with dozens of homes and businesses.

The work, which is expected to take another two months, will mean some disruption to rugby, junior football and tennis activities at Tynedale Park.

Coun. Ian Swithenbank, cabinet member for local services with the county council, said: “The scheme which is vital for the people of Corbridge is progressing well and we’re now moving on to the next key stage.

“This will involving significant improvements to the surface water drainage along Station Road, to increase capacity and reduce risk of flooding to nearby properties, as well as footpath and road resurfacing.

“Over the next three weeks, engineers will be finishing construction of temporary car parks for residents and train passengers to allow work to start on Station Road and the new drainage system to be installed.”

Tinklers Bank and Station Road will be closed from Monday until May 19 to allow for the work to take place, but access will still be available for residents.

The council says it plans to install temporary car parks near The Valley restaurant and on a section of Tynedale Rugby Club land near The Stanners.

Chairman of Corbridge Parish Council, Coun. Maurice Hodgson, has arranged a drop-in session to update residents on the work.

It will take place between 5pm and 7pm on Monday at Tynedale Rugby Club.