WORK started today (Monday, February 11) on a scheme to improve a sewage pumping station on a Yorkshire Dales beck.

The project off Leyburn Road in Askrigg, near Leyburn aims to make the water in Askrigg Beck cleaner.

Two-way traffic will be maintained throughout most of the project.

The road needs to be closed for one day for the delivery of the new pump, which will be coloured green to match the surroundings.

The closure will be on Wednesday, March 6 between 9.30am and 3pm.

A fully signed diversion route will be in place and access will be maintained for residents.

Yorkshire Water project manager, Ian Dunwell said: “We’re really pleased that by looking for an alternative solution, we have found a design for the scheme that will still reduce the risk of pollution to the local watercourse but will also keep the road open except for one day.

“We hope residents will bear with us during this essential scheme and we’d like to thank them in advance for their patience."