A STREAM which flows over a footpath in Malvern's Priory Park is to be diverted to remove the risk of people slipping as the cold weather sets in.

The stream runs from the south-west corner of the park, behind Malvern Theatres, through a water garden, under a play area and into Swan Pool.

Last year, the pipe that carries the water under the playground became blocked and attempts to clear it have been unsuccessful.

Worcestershire County Council has expressed concerns over surface water freezing and becoming hazardous during the winter months.

Malvern Hills District Council has now agreed to spend almost £10,000 on installing a new pipe beneath the play area.

The pipe will have two inspection chambers so that any future blockages can be cleared quickly and easily.

The estimated cost of the work is £9,500. It will be taken from the £16,000 left over in the council's capital improvements budget for the park, which was approved in September last year.

The work is expected to be carried out in the New Year.