A Stoke-on-Trent playground has been forced to shut due to a 'vital' project to improve the waterways by Severn Trent.

The Fegg Hayes playground is expected to be closed for 10 months while the work is being carried out.

The water company is planning to install 170 metres of new pipework which will connect to a huge underground tank for the collection of stormwater. Severn Trent say the project will help secure the network, reduce flooding and improve the water course.

However as a result of work on the site the Hambro Place play area will be closed for the next 10 months. Despite work not starting until later this year Severn Trent have been on site since 2 April.

Resident William Roberts said he understands the need to carry out the work. He said: "They've told me why they need to do the work but I do wonder why they've decided to do it now which means the play area will be closed all summer. Surely that is when most children are going to use it."

Severn Trent is planning to install 170 metres of new pipework at the Hambro Place site (LDRS).

The site is located less than 200 metres away from Whitfield Valley Academy School. One parent added: "The first I heard about it was when I walked past and saw all the fences being put up. I don't know why they need to close it all off. Surely they could do what they're doing elsewhere."

Kay Gill, Severn Trent Community Communications Officer, said: "We will be installing around 170m of brand-new pipework and other sewage assets, such as below ground tanks. This will also help with improving the quality of the Ford Green water course and reduce the risk of flooding in the area. Due to the location of the work, the playground area will unfortunately need to be closed. 

"We do understand the frustrations this may cause, but this project is vital in helping secure the network for the future. We appreciate that it can be inconvenient to have work happening in your area. But we, along with our contract partner Barhale, will do all we can to minimise disruption for local people and businesses where possible."

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