Scottish Water has announced the imminent completion of a £11.5 million project to help reduce sewer flooding in Craigneuk, North Lanarkshire.

A giant underground storm tank measuring 25 metres across and 19 metres deep has been installed in Craigneuk Park to help provide extra storage capacity for storm water during heavy rainfall.

Over a thousand metres of new sewer pipe have also been laid in the surrounding streets and at Airdrie Football Club's Excelsior Stadium.

Georgina Reid, Scottish Water's corporate affairs manager for the west, said: "This has been a complex and challenging project to deliver.

"As well as having to meet strict Covid working restrictions, our contractors have had to cope with a range of logistical issues brought about by global markets and the conflict in Ukraine.

"We appreciate it has also been disruptive to residents and road users so I would like to thank them for their patience and understanding throughout.

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"Sewer flooding is extremely unpleasant for householders and this project will make a real difference to the local community."

The improvement work began in November 2020 and has been designed to reduce the risk of internal and external sewer flooding.

It will also mitigate against flooding affecting public transport, access to local schools and the football stadium.

Project Manager Max Turnbull said: "It has been quite demanding, but we have had a good team on the job.

"Covid has been a challenge and the supply issue has been especially difficult to navigate.

"Local residents have been very understanding, especially about the delays and we have worked closely with them to accommodate their needs, particularly around the impact on local bus services.

"It is always satisfying to know you have done some good when you finish a project like this. I have even been known to bring my children along to show them newly installed manholes."

Georgina Reid added: "Scottish Water is investing many millions of pounds in similar projects across the country.

"We are committed to delivering on our promise to upgrade and improve our infrastructure to deliver a world class service that is resilient and well-placed to cope with the impact of climate change."

Reinstatement works are now underway including grass reseeding which should be completed by the start of September. All fencing will be removed six weeks later to allow the new grass to grow.

Final pipework connections to make the tank fully operational will also be taking place over the few weeks.