WORK to improve the drainage system in Chudleigh gets underway next month.

Work to the B3344 Station Road will begin on Monday, September 8.

The existing drainage system, which takes water away from town centre, has come to the end of its life and needs to be completely replaced throughout Station Hill, says Devon County Council (DCC).

New pipework is to be installed and where possible DCC will use the existing gullies and chambers, though the council have allowed for their replacement if it becomes apparent that it is necessary.

‘This will resolve the issue of pooling water which has plagued this section of road for many years’, says the council.

The lower section of Station Hill is wide enough for both residents and visitors to drive while work is carried out under traffic management.

Towards the town centre, however, the carrier drain runs along the middle of the carriageway and the road narrows meaning a road closure with no through traffic will be implemented.

DCC considered night time working, but concluded it was not possible ‘due to safety implications and disruption to localised residents’.

The work will be undertaken in two phases.

Phase one will take place between Monday, September 8 and Friday, October 3, with the option to be extended until Friday, October 10 under traffic management.

Work will begin close to Rocklands and proceed towards the Town Centre.

Phase two with commence in October, either Monday 6 or Monday 13.

It is due to finish on Friday, December 12 under a road closure.

Work will begin at Gordon Lodge and proceed toward the junction with Rock Road.

All other roads in Chudleigh, barring any emergencies, will remain open, Devon County Council have confirmed.

Likewise, access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times, the council have said.