CONTRACTORS have issued assurances their constant hammering which has disturbed the peace over Wistaston will be over by tomorrow.

Residents have complained about a loud thudding noise from a sheet piling machine workmen have been using at Bellway Homes' new estate at Kingfisher Rise.

The noise, which can be heard for more than a mile around, has been going on since last Thursday from 8am to 6pm. People living close to the site at the Rising Sun end of Wistaston Green Road say it has been like a "constant drum beat".

Some claim they have not been able to concentrate on homeworking and one resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "Although the work is being done following current guidance it is very difficult to live with the incessant drumming. I live about a quarter of a mile away and can still feel it through the floor of my home.

"Ten hours a day is just too much. I challenge any council officer to spend a day with the constant almost drum-like beat."

Residents say they had no warning from the site's developers about the scheme which has involved the driving of sheet metal piles to secure land above Gresty Brook before new housing foundations are laid.

Now the contractors, Preston-based Sheet Piling UK, says most of the pile driving work has been completed today, although some remedial works will be finished off tomorrow (Tuesday).

Cllr Jacquie Weatherill, who represents Wistaston on Cheshire East Council, has visited the site office and has been told the work is drawing to a close.

She said: "I have been assured this will be completed by the end of today (Monday) and if not definitely tomorrow."