When will Bristol's new flood defences start construction?

Construction is now expected to begin in the 2030/31 period, delayed from earlier plans.

What are the main threats to Bristol's infrastructure?

The primary threats are tidal flooding, stronger storms, and potential transport network severance due to rising sea levels.

Who is working on Bristol's flood defence strategy?

The council is collaborating with the Environment Agency and the West of England Combined Authority.

Home / Environment / Bristol Flooding: Defences Delayed, City at Risk

Bristol Flooding: Defences Delayed, City at Risk

19 Jan

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Summary

Bristol's flood defences, vital against tidal threats, face construction delays.
New defence work on the Avon River is now slated to begin in 2030/31.
Higher tides and stronger storms pose a significant risk to the city's infrastructure.

Bristol Flooding: Defences Delayed, City at Risk

Bristol's vital flood defence project, intended to protect the city from escalating tidal flooding and severe weather events, has seen its construction timeline significantly pushed back. The ambitious plan to build nine miles of defences along the Avon River, stretching from Swineford through the city centre to Shirehampton, will now not commence until the next decade.

Councillor Andrew Brown, chair of the economy and skills policy committee, stated that a funding strategy is being developed, with further details to emerge as the full business case progresses. While the earliest possible construction start is projected for 2030/31, the council is actively exploring opportunities for early wins and third-party delivery to mitigate risks.

Previous council reports have highlighted the critical threat posed by tidal flooding, exacerbated by melting polar ice sheets, which could sever the city's transport network and damage essential infrastructure. The delay means Bristol's vulnerability to higher tides and stronger storms will persist for several more years.