The Environment Agency in the South West has announced it is making good progress inspecting and repairing flood defences damaged during the winter storms and floods.
More than 100 flood defence structures including river banks, pumping stations, sluices, gates and beach defences were damaged earlier this year in Somerset and Dorset after some of the wettest weather and worst floods for 250 years.
Since the floodwater receded, a detailed inspection has been made of defences and repair sites identified. The Environment Agency is working flat out to ensure these repairs are completed on time and all its defences are in full working order and ready to protect local communities from any future flooding.
Robbie Williams for the Environment Agency , said:
“Many of our vital flood defences were damaged from the recent winter flooding which was the wettest on record. These repair works are vital to protect people and properties from flooding. We are targeting and prioritising repairs where there is the greatest flood risk, with the aim to complete work before winter. This will ensure they are ready for any heavy rain and high tides.”
“ A great deal of repair work is already underway and in some places, has already been completed. At Chesil Beach in Dorset more than 150,000 cubic metres of shingle was lost from the beach and the flood defences damaged during winter storms. Work to repair the defences and replenish the beach is well under way. ”
Good progress is also being made in Somerset where dredging of the Rivers Parrett and Tone is on target for completion by October. Repairs are also due to start at Allermoor Spillway.
The contractor, Team Van Oord, have been appointed to repair the damaged defences.
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Press Release, July 29, 2014