Find out about Fairford sewage works (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Find out about Fairford sewage works

FOLLOWING several years of sewage problems in Fairford, Thames Water begins work on a new system this month.

And next Wednesday residents have the opportunity to find out more about exactly what the six-month project involves.

Seventy properties have been affected by floods in recent years, when heavy rainfall has overwhelmed the sewers, filling them to capacity and causing sewage to overflow into homes and gardens.

It is hoped that this £3.3 million scheme will massively reduce the likelihood of further floods.

Project manager Lawrence Adams said: "Although sewer flooding is rare, it is unpleasant and distressing so it's important that we make these improvements to reduce the risk of it happening again.

"I'd like to reassure people we will do all we can to minimise any disruption."

The improvements follow detailed investigations which included the use of monitoring instruments to check the levels of waste water in the pipes and CCTV cameras to inspect the condition of the sewers.

Engineers had intended to lay a large new sewer system through the town and under Market Place but changed their plans because of concerns about the disruption that might be caused, particularly for traders in the heart of Fairford.

Instead, the project involves the construction of a new pumping station at Moor Farm with an incrased capacity and larger, more powerful pumps than the station it replaces.

Other improvements include relining sections of sewer in Courtbrook to prevent water seeping into the pipes, as well as the construction of a new sewer in Horcott Road, part of which will be closed for 16 weeks from mid-January, 2006.

Most of the work is expected to be finished by June.

Wednesday's (January 11) drop-in session runs from 2pm to 7pm in the Farmor Room at Fairford Community Centre. Experts will be on hand to answer questions.