Work on a flood risk management project that will see 220 homes and businesses better protected from flooding is continuing to make progress.
The £12m Skirting Beck and Whangs Beck Flood Risk Management Scheme in Egremont will – once completed – improve the local environment and community amenities, the Environment Agency said.
Following planning approval in October 2019, the Environment Agency has completed culvert works at Croadalla Avenue and property resistance measures have been delivered to 43 properties across the town.
Construction has started on flood storage areas, consisting of flood walls and flood embankments, at West Lakes Academy, Falcon Club and How Bank Farm. The flood risk management scheme will also involve improved sustainable drainage systems at various locations across the town.
At least 600 trees are to be planted as part of the scheme and 16.5 acres of habitat improvement works are currently ongoing in the area of Black Beck. This will bring benefits to the environment and to the community through improved community amenities such as educational ponds for schoolchildren.
The work is expected to be completed by October 2022.
Stewart Mounsey, Cumbria’s flood risk manager at the Environment Agency said: “The Skirting and Whangs Beck Flood Risk Management Scheme will not only better protect people and property from flooding but will create a better place for the community by providing an enhanced environment for wildlife to thrive. We are delighted to see the progress on this scheme and look forward to the benefits its completion will bring.”
“The help and cooperation of local residents, West Lakes Academy, Falcon Club, schools and nurseries has helped this scheme come to fruition and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their continued support.”
