FLOOD defence work in Northwich town centre is expected to be finished by spring next year.

The Environment Agency is working on the first stages of the plan, which aims to reduce flood risk to 500 homes and businesses.

David Brown, from the Environment Agency, gave an update about the work at the latest meeting of Northwich Town Council.

He said: "The completion date is for during this financial year, so by March 2016."

He added: "Things are progressing OK but our contractors are already potentially suggesting it will take the full amount of time."

Defences will be installed in nine sections along the rivers Dane and Weaver using a variety of methods, including flood walls and embankments, ground raising, flood gates and demountable defences.

The ground level is being raised at Barons Quay, defences installed in Weaver Way and work has begun in Water Street.

Defences will be built at the marina Northwich Quay, by Waitrose, during the summer months when the impact on boaters is expected to be less.

Plans are also in place for the defences in the Bull Ring, which will see a piling rig run from a floating pontoon in the River Weaver.

On the Marine Approach side of the River Weaver, flood defences will feature strengthened patio doors and flood gates between buildings.

The Environment Agency's plans for Northwich are estimated to cost £4.5million, with £2million from the Government and £500,000 put forward by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC).

Plans for the work were given the go ahead by CWAC's strategic planning committee in December last year.