Flood Defences Restored After Devastating Mersey River Surge

In October 2025, the Environment Agency has completed repairs to flood defences along a stretch of the River Mersey in Manchester that was severely damaged by heavy flooding earlier this year. The work, which started after the New Year's Day deluge forced hundreds of people to evacuate their homes in the Didsbury and Northenden areas, has restored flood protection to 316 homes and businesses in the affected communities.

The agency's flood risk manager, Jamie Dixon, stated that the repairs to the embankments, which are a vital part of the local flood defence system, will help reduce the risk of flooding from the River Mersey in future storms. The river reached its highest level in 66 years during the January floods, causing significant disruption and damage.

Parts of the river, including the popular Fletcher Moss area, had been cordoned off and several footbridges were closed during the repair work. However, the agency has now confirmed that the flood protection has been fully restored, allowing the public to once again access the affected areas along the riverbanks.