Work on a £2.3 million-pound major project to tackle flooding in Caia Park, Wrexham has been completed. The work by the not-for-profit company, Welsh Water will protect homes in the Wynnstay Avenue area and the local environment by reducing flooding from the wastewater network during heavy rain.
The work, which started in July last year, saw the installation of a large underground storage tank in the grassed area between Wynnstay Avenue and Deva Way. New pipes were installed connecting the tank to the network, so that when the wastewater system is at full capacity during heavy rain the storage tank will store the stormwater until the rain has eased and then slowly release it back into the wastewater network which will reduce the risk of flooding.
So that the work could be done on the grassed area, community goalposts had to be removed. To thank local residents for bearing with them during the work, Welsh Water have replaced the old goalposts that had seen better days with new ones for the whole community to enjoy.
Welsh Water’s Project Manager Sean O’Rourke said: “Our £2.3 million major investment in Wynnstay Avenue, Wrexham, reflects our commitment to providing all customers with a sewerage system that they can trust in as well as protecting the environment. This was a big scheme for us, which included the construction of a new underground water storage tank and the installation of new pipework. We understand that our work here caused some disruption, so we would like to thank residents in the area for their understanding and bearing with us while we carried out this essential work”
When working in communities on major projects like in Caia Park, Welsh Water try to give back to communities through initiatives or by supporting community groups. Welsh Water also have a community fund, for more information on this and how to apply visit Community Fund
Welsh Water has been able to donate £250 to two community initiatives at Caia park by way of thanks: The Venture which provides free play activities and Deva House Day Centre, providing adults with opportunities to socialise.
Linda "Bronson" Platt, The Venture Playground Manager said “We’re pleased to hear the investment work to help protect the area from flooding is now complete. The team have been polite and courteous throughout. We also want to thank you for the very kind donation and the pallets that we have received as it has given the children the opportunity to observe the work to upcycle the pallets, which we do hope this has inspired lots of our children to want to work in construction in the future.”
The scheme follows a £700,000 investment in the wastewater network in Gwersyllt to tackle similar issues.
As a ‘not-for-profit company’ Welsh Water does not have shareholders, and any financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of customers.