Plans for a drainage scheme costing more than £1million for Dearham are back on track after six years.

Villagers will have the chance to comment on the scheme and find out more at a public consultation next Wednesday.

A United Utilities spokeswoman said it is hoped that work on the scheme will begin at the end of spring or early summer and will be completed by next year.

In 2012 United Utilities announced a £1.6 million scheme of drainage improvements to alleviate flooding in the village.

The spokeswoman said the scheme was halted because it appeared that sewer flooding may have been a wider spread problem than was first suggested.

“We wanted to make sure that we had the up-to-date information before work began,” she said.

She added the cost of the scheme six years ago was estimated at £1.6 million.

“We realise that the cost is likely to be more than that," she said.

While an attempt to alleviate flooding has been welcomed in the village, some residents are concerned about the effect the work will have.

The drains are to be upgraded down Centre Road.

Residents are concerned about parking and access to their properties during this time.

However, the water company spokeswoman said the company would be listening to concerns and trying to alleviate any fears.

The consultation will take the form of a drop-in where residents can speak to UU representatives and look at the work plans and schedules.

It will be held in the village hall from 1pm to 7pm next Wednesday, February 7.