Plans to cut sewage in urban river by 2030

Plans to reduce the amount of sewage released into a river have been announced.

Northumbrian Water said it had committed to carry out "interventions" on two storm overflows connected to the Ouseburn, in the Longbenton area of Newcastle, by 2030.

Scientists have previously suggested bacteria levels in the river pose a "significant risk" to people.

Green Party councillor for Byker Nick Hartley said he welcomed the move but he was concerned the firm appeared to have no immediate plans to upgrade the other overflows that discharge into the river.

"I will be pressing Northumbrian Water for specific information on these overflows," he said.

The water firm said it was in the early stages of planning its work on Longbenton's storm overflows.

Newcastle City Council declined to comment as the work as it had not yet been discussed by its planning committee.

Liberal Democrat North Jesmond councillor Peter Allen said he hoped to see "spades in the ground as soon as possible".

"This is the start but there is more to be done," he said.

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