A FURNESS town is set for a cleaner, greener future after major plans were unveiled by United Utilities. The water company wants to improve Ulverston’s sewerage network to reduce the negative impact of heavy downpours. Excessive rain has caused sewer pipes to become full and consequently there have been spills into streams and becks. But by building a new 17 metre-deep underground storage tank beneath the town’s Eller’s allotments, it is hoped the problem will be alleviated. New pipes will also be installed in Morecambe Road and Lund Road. Project manager Paul Romanko said: “The finished tank will be hold an extra 1,425 cubic metres of dirty storm water which might otherwise have found its way into the beck and out to sea. “Instead, the water will be stored safely until the rain subsides and then pumped out to our treatment works to be cleaned. "We know this kind of work can cause disruption so we're keen to tell people all about what we're planning and how we intend to make it as easy as possible on them.” A number of allotment plots at The Eller’s will be affected, although United Utilities have pledged to create new plots at nearby Dragley Beck Allotments. They have also promised to replace any lost or damaged property, such as sheds. Allotment holder Harry Braithwaite said the scheme was long overdue. “If it’s going to prevent flooding I think it’s a good idea, although I’m not sure if it will alleviate the problem altogether, it’s a great start.” United Utilities said its project at the Ellers was not designed to tackle flooding, but a side-effect of the new tank would be to slightly reduce the amount of water which gets into Town Beck during flood events. The volume of the tank is similar to just over half that of an Olympic swimming pool. Coun Pat Jones also thought the works, similar to those carried out in Arnside through the summer, were essential. “It’s got to be done – it is a necessity. “United Utilities have been very helpful, and the area will look very nice once all the works are done. “Most of the allotment holders were happy and have been found other spaces.” Subject to planning permission, the work is due to start in April 2013 and be completed within 12 months.