Ofwat has secured a legally binding agreement from United Utilities to take action to drive down the risks of flooding from overloaded sewers for people living in Penketh. Some properties in the Penketh area in Warrington have had their properties flooded by sewage and others are at risk of this happening.

Following an investigation, the company has committed to carrying out a range of improvement work to reduce the risk of flooding to properties in the area.

Regina Finn, Ofwat Chief Executive Officer, said:

"This is a good result for those people living in Penketh who have had to endure sewer flooding or live under the threat of their homes being flooded.

"We expect companies to understand which properties are at risk of sewer flooding and take action to address that risk."

The work will include enlarging sewers, upgrading pumping equipment and building a new storm water outlet to the River Mersey. By August 2011, 68 properties will be off the register of those considered to be at risk of sewer flooding.

Ofwat will monitor the company's progress in carrying out work and reducing the flood risk to properties in the Pyecroft Road, Penketh North and Penketh South areas.