United Utilities will set out its plans next week for  a £multi-million upgrade of the Allonby beach sewer scheme.

The project, which is due to start next year, will increase the capacity of both the pipes and the sewage works. The work will involve replacing 180m of existing sewer under Allonby beach with a larger diameter pipe.

Allonby beach failed its bathing water standards last year, although the sewer system was only a small part of the problem.

United Utilities is investing millions in sewerage systems across Cumbria and the North West to improve coastal water quality and habitats. Two years ago, the firm built a huge £13m storm water storage tank at Maryport, which has already helped improve bathing water quality in places like Allonby.

The extension of the sewage works will allow United Utilities to build extra storage capacity to reduce the likelihood of spills to the sea. Extra ultraviolet treatment will also be installed to treat  any spills that do occur.

United Utilities is holding a public exhibition on its proposals in  Allonby on August 19, where engineers will be on hand to answer questions about the scheme.