A MAJOR sewerage project, designed to alleviate sewer flooding of homes and roads in Hagley, has won an award.

The £1.2m flood alleviation scheme, delivered by NMCNomenca on behalf of Severn Trent, saw 1,275m of sewers installed at sensitive locations around Newfield Road.

Insufficient capacity within the old sewerage system, combined with high surface water run-off, had caused flooding to reach residential properties and a number of roads.

The project's effective community engagement impressed judges at the Institution of Civil Engineers' West Midlands Awards, who awarded the scheme the Communication Award.

David Hutchinson, programme manager at NMCNomenca, said: "This award is a great achievement. The team proved what teamwork and collaboration can achieve, which we strive for everyday.”

A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council, which helped to develop a holistic communications strategy, added: "It was a sterling effort and without all round hard work and endeavour, the works could have been a lot more contentious and perhaps may not have been delivered so smoothly."

Judges were impressed that the Hagley community was informed of the project two years before work started, with regular presentations held at parish council meetings.

Measures to address stakeholder concerns were agreed and communicated with residents.

The project was delivered on time and within budget, demonstrating the team's aim to put customers first.

The winning team was presented with the award at a special dinner at the ICC in Birmingham on Wednesday, May 9, which was attended by more than 270 guests.

ICE West Midlands chairman Yvonne Aust said: "I congratulate the winners of our 2018 awards and all entrants for their hard work and dedication, which often goes unseen by the general public.

"In highlighting our people and projects we will hopefully inspire the next generation to think about following an exciting and rewarding career in civil engineering.”