United Utilities is starting work this month on a £14 million programme to upgrade Carlisle's water mains.

The scheme, which will be delivered in several phases over a three year period, will see a total of 30km of old pipes replaced. Some of the city’s water pipes are more than 100 years old and are reaching the end of their useful life.

The first phase of the scheme, which began this week, will run through to October this year. This will see engineers replace pipes from Cummersdale through Upperby to Harraby .

The second phase of the project, scheduled for Autumn 2016, will take place in the Scotby, Wetheral and Cumwhinton areas. More details will be announced nearer the time.

Alex Bolton, United Utilities' network business manager said the investment programme would upgrade pipes serving 43,000 homes and businesses in Carlisle, providing customers with a reliable, high quality water service for many years to come.