A NEW £5 million flood defence scheme designed to reduce the risk to homes and businesses in Severn Stoke has been completed ahead of schedule.
The scheme is now fully operational ahead of winter following work by the Environment Agency and Worcestershire County Council, alongside contractors Alun Griffiths Construction Ltd.
It includes a new flood bank running to the west of the village, new drainage to manage surface water and a raised section of road where it crosses the flood bank.
READ MORE: Work starts at Severn Stoke on long-awaited flood scheme
Councillor Josh Robinson, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for Environment and Communities, said: “Residents in Severn Stoke know better than most the disruption and worry that flooding can bring.
“That’s why it’s great to see this flood alleviation scheme operational ahead of winter, helping to protect homes, businesses and vital transport links.
“Most importantly, it will give local people added reassurance and confidence as we head into the months when flood risk is often at its highest.”
Severn Stoke has a long history of flooding from the River Severn and has been severely affected during recent winters.
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Eighteen properties, the local church, pub and the A38 have all been affected during periods of significant flooding.
Charlie Chandler, Area Flood Risk Manager for the West Midlands at the Environment Agency, said the organisation was “delighted” to have delivered the scheme ahead of schedule.
Around £5 million of the delivery costs have been funded by the Environment Agency, with Worcestershire County Council contributing a further £250,000.
Further landscaping work, including tree planting, habitat creation and fencing, will be completed over the coming months.
The project forms part of the Government’s wider flood programme, which is investing at least £10.5 billion in new and existing flood defences until 2036.
