Work starts to put an end to 15 years of Chemical Lane flooding
New drainage system is expected to take around three months to install
Work has started on a new drainage system to tackle flooding on Chemical Lane in Longbridge Hayes, that has been hit for more than 15 years.
It is expected to take around three months, or about 12 weeks.
The area has been nicknamed "Chemical Lake" because of the persistent flooding.
What the work involves
The new system will take surface water from the road near the double bend, which is prone to flooding, to an existing drain to the south.
The council says it has been designed in partnership with Network Rail and Severn Trent Water.
Temporary lane and road closures will be in place throughout the work and a signed diversion is also in place for local traffic.
Access to businesses will be maintained at all times via the Chemical Lane and A500 junctions at either end of the road.
The temporary pumping equipment already in place will remain until the project is finished.
Once the new system is working, the council says there will be extra monitoring and maintenance to make sure it keeps draining surface water from the area.
Network Rail previously said the problem was caused by the blockage of a nearby stream.
Andrew Mynors, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Connectivity, said: "The flooding on the lane has been an issue for many years, so it's great to see work start on a long-term solution."
He also said: "It's been a complex matter involving a number of partner agencies, but by working together we believe we've come up with a solution. This new gravity drainage system will help reduce the impact of flooding on the highway, taking water from the road down to an outfall about 220 metres away."
He added: "Once the scheme is complete, we will also be increasing maintenance of the new system to make sure it continues to adequately drain surface water from the road."
Councillor Mynors said: "As ever, our crews will be doing their best to get the work done as safely and efficiently as possible and we thank people in advance for their co-operation."
Business owners on the road have long complained about the flooding.
Wider plans on water
It has also been announced that local leaders in Staffordshire and Cheshire could have more influence over water companies under new Government plans.
Eight regional councils are being proposed to help shape billions of pounds of investment.
The Government wants them to help set priorities on sewage, flooding and water quality.
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