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Flood Defence Scheme Ahead of Schedule
19 Aug
Summary
- Worcestershire flood defence completion moved up by two months.
- A £5.2m project includes a clay embankment and raised road.
- Previous delays frustrated residents awaiting flood protection.
Construction on a crucial flood defence project in Worcestershire is progressing ahead of schedule, with completion now anticipated by mid-October, two months earlier than the original end-of-year target. The favorable dry weather experienced over the summer has significantly aided the Environment Agency's efforts.
The £5.2 million scheme in Severn Stoke is designed to mitigate long-standing flooding issues. Key components include the creation of a specialized clay embankment west of the village and the elevation of a section of Ham Lane by three to four meters. This proactive approach aims to protect homes and businesses.
Residents have experienced repeated delays with this project, largely due to cost concerns, despite planning permission being granted in 2020 and amended in 2021. The new defences are expected to provide substantial peace of mind during periods of heavy rain, addressing a problem that has affected the community for over a decade, including significant events in 2007 and more recently.
Charlie Chandler, area flood risk manager, highlighted the positive impact of the dry weather on the project's timeline. He emphasized that while nature cannot be entirely controlled, the scheme is well-designed to make a massive difference in protecting the community from recurrent flooding, enabling residents to live with greater ease.
