DRAINS under a flooded subway in Middlewich have been cleared but it remains closed for further investigation work to be carried out.

The Guardian reported last week how the subterranean walkway under the busy St Michael's Way was submerged under several inches of water, making it completely impassable.

READ> Middlewich residents want action after subway is flooded

According to one resident we spoke to, it's not the first time the popular walkway has been subjected to flooding, with the issue becoming more and more common.

Garnet Marshall said he felt the issue was characteristic of Middlewich always being forgotten about by Cheshire East council.

He said: "Over the last few months, there have been some torrential downpours.

"If it rains heavy then the drains can't cope.

"The problem is, its been very poorly maintained for a number of years.

"In winter you sometimes can't even get down it because of all the leaves that end up there."

Another resident said she was particularly concerned, because as a parent, having to cross the busy St Michael's Way rather than use the subway, posed serious risks.

Laura Flaherty said: "In the last three weeks a car has crashed and gone through a wall.

"This could have been a lot worse if a mother like myself had been pushing her pram on the pavement, as the car went over the pavement crashed down a wall and nearly went into the front of a house.

"There could be a fatality if children and the elderly are expected to cross a busy dual bypass."

Cheshire East have now responded to the concerns raised and say they are investigating what is causing the problem.

A spokesman for the council said: "A closure and diversion of the subway is being implemented due to the flooding.

"The drains have been cleared throughout the full length of the subway but there is further investigation required to resolve the ongoing problem."