WORK has finally begun on fixing a problem that has caused repeated flooding on an Otley road.

Walkergate has been suffering high water hell following any prolonged downfall of heavy rain ever since last November, due to a suspected blocked or broken drain.

As reported in the Observer last month, the situation has proven particularly serious for resident Kimberley Swales and her family.

Their home faces out directly onto the drain concerned, and has flooded 20 times during the past five months due to accumulated surface water.

Mrs Swales, who has limited mobility, has criticised Leeds City Council for failing to come up with a lasting solution to the problem. Ward councillors have also hit out at the lack of action as 'unacceptable'.

This week, however, a crew working for the council have been out on site to repair – or replace, if it proves necessary – the road gully and main sewer in Walkergate.

Due to be completed by tomorrow, the 8.30am to 5pm work has involved closing a section of the road to through-traffic.

Councillor Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) said: "I appreciate this will cause some inconvenience and I have asked they re-open the road for market day.

"However, I am pleased work at last seems to be taking place."

Mrs Swales, meanwhile, has hailed the development as "great news".

She added: "I knew all along the drain outside ours had collapsed but they wouldn't listen.

"Let's hope this now means there will be an end to the flooding."

The council's flood risk management department, however, has warned the work required could be substantial as the main sewer on the road is 3.5 metres deep.

And they are describing the emergency drainage works scheme in Walkergate as "a significant operation".

Pedestrian access is being maintained throughout the project, but the council has asked people not to park on the road until it is completed.

In a letter notifying residents about the project, highways maintenance manager, Russell, Martin says: "I would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience and assure you every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum."

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