Works to cut sewage spills to begin in 2027

Northumbrian Water says the work will take over two years to complete

A water firm has said works to cut sewage spills in a town will begin in spring 2027.

Northumbrian Water was urged to give updates to councillors over construction work to upgrade the sewer network in Berwick, Northumberland, which will take about two and a half years to complete.

Official Paul Davison told Northumberland County Council that the works would improve water quality around the village Spittal and the River Tweed.

Independent councillor Georgina Hill said sewage and the risk of flooding were major worries for residents in Spittal, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Describing the pumping of raw sewage into the sea as "simply unacceptable", Hill also said: "We need to be assured that the upgrade and increase in sewer capacity will reduce flood risk too, which has been a long standing concern especially for Spittal."

Mr Davison confirmed Northumbrian Water would be investigating flooding issues in the area.

He said the works to tackle spills from storm overflows were currently in the planning phrase and ground investigations would begin in the coming months.

He promised Berwick residents would be kept updated throughout the project.