£6m scheme to improve bathing water

Two underground storage tanks, which will hold excess storm water, are to be installed by Northumbrian Water costing more than £6m.

During periods of heavy rainfall, storm water is currently discharged directly into the sea at Redcar and can end up on beaches along the coast.

But, after extensive consultation with residents, the project will start in June - with the backing of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

Coun Bob Stanway, cabinet member for environmental improvement, said: "At the moment during heavy rains, the sewage system cannot cope with the excess. It is therefore passed through to the overflow, into the sea and on to our beaches.

"But once the new tanks have been installed, this will not happen, making our beaches and the environment a cleaner, safer place to be."

One storage tank is to be located under The Stray, between the roundabout on the Coast Road and the existing pumping station in Zetland Park. The other tank is to be located in the grounds of Redcar and Cleveland College. The scheme, which will be complete by spring next year, will provide additional storm protection to the sewer network in Redcar.

A spokeswoman for Northumbrian Water said: "These tanks will significantly improve the environment and the condition of the bathing waters, which are popular in the summer months.

"We have gone a long way to ensure the public of Redcar is happy with the project and the finalised project goes along with the preferred options of the resident of Redcar."

The improvement work will have a positive impact on bathing water quality and ensure standards consistently comply with European legislation.

Northumbrian Water has also offered to try to help identify the possible cause of flooding in Zetland Park.

Coun Stanway said: "Environmentally, our beaches are good quality and pass European standards. We want to show people Redcar is a clean, green place to visit."

People wanting more information should telephone (08457) 171100.