AN announcement that a £2m sewer improvement scheme in Hartlepool is about to begin has been hailed as a second victory for people power.

Northumbrian Water has announced it is to start work on the scheme on Monday.

It follows a campaign by residents to alleviate flooding in the Honiton Way and Mardale Avenue area of the Fens and was first agreed last year.

About 30 homes most at risk in Honiton Way, Mardale Avenue, Salcombe Drive, Torquay Avenue and Fens Crescent will benefit directly from the scheme which involves the installation of large diameter pipes to increase the capacity of the sewer system and a sewer diversion.

The proposed works follows a detailed investigation of flooding issues affecting Hartlepool by the Environment and Regeneration Scrutiny Forum. Residents played a key role in the investigation by and telling of their flooding experiences.

Last month, however, the company revealed that the scheme was likely to be delayed because the scale of the work required was greater than originally identified in a feasibility study.

That prompted about 400 residents to sign a petition organised by local man Steve Gibbon and his wife Colette calling for the scheme to be started as agreed and completed before the summer storm season. Councillors and WaterVoice, a body representing customers, supported their campaign.

Now, Northumbrian Water, has announced that the work is to start after all, prompting fresh praise for the residents from Councillor Pamela Hargreaves who is chairman of the scrutiny forum.

She said: "It was a major disappointment when it looked likely that the works would be delayed, but I firmly believe that the subsequent campaign and petition has made Northumbrian Water think again."