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National
Kali Lindsay

Northumberland underpass hit with flooding issues cleared as council work on permanent fix

A Northumberland underpass plagued with flooding problems has been cleared as council bosses work on a permanent fix.

The underpass in Cramlington, near Westmorland Way, has been flooding for nine weeks during heavy rain fall after the pumps in the drainage systems broke down.

Northumberland County Council says a temporary pumping system has allowed the underpass to be cleared.

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A spokeswoman for the local authority said: "We are aware of the flooding problem at the underpass in Cramlington as a result of the pumps in the drainage system for the underpass breaking down.

"As a short-term measure, we have installed a temporary pumping system that has enabled the underpass to be brought back into use again and are working with the supplier to get the pumps back up and running again.

"We have engineers out visiting the site to progress the works required to ensure the permanent drainage system is fully operational to provide a long-term solution to the flooding problem.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

The cleared underpass in Cramlington that's been hit by flooding (handout)

One resident said: "This has been a nightmare for me and I'm sure other disabled people."

Another said: "This has been an issue for years and needs rectified permanently not just another quick fix for this winter.

"This cuts off a lot of the older generation who are unable to walk another way around or be able to afford the taxis getting to and from the shopping centre."

Councillor Mark Swinburn, who represents Cramlington Village, said a temporary external pump was lifted into place by a crane to drain the subway.

He added: "They hope this may be sufficient for now, but will be keeping the crossing in place as well.

"Please note that this is only a temporary fix.

"The two main underground pumps still need to be replaced so that they can be in operation continuously and this arrangement is being reviewed to take the necessary action."

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