Decision on phase three of Carlisle flood defences ‘likely to take 18 months’

Stewart Mounsey, flood risk manager for Cumbria for the Environment Agency

A decision on the measures for phase three of Carlisle’s flood management scheme is likely to take 18 months, the Environment Agency says.

The Government agency revealed in its August newsletter that it was looking at “long-term interventions to ensure that the end result takes into consideration climate change and relevant new guidance”.

It went on to say that the previous plans to “raise existing defences along the River Caldew along with enhanced maintenance of the river corridor did not offer the long-term benefits” and that the Environment Agency will look at “other potential proposals that provide the long term benefits to Carlisle”.

When asked by Cumbria Crack to provide an update on the progress of the plans, Stewart Mounsey, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for Cumbria said: “We would like to reassure the local community that there has been no cancellation of the flood scheme for Carlisle Phase 3. The Environment Agency is currently looking at options to reduce the risk to the communities of Denton Holme, Willow Holme and Caldew in Carlisle and this is likely to take 18 months.

“We understand that residents are keen to have these defences, but it is important we get it right. Flood schemes are often large, major infrastructure, requiring extensive modelling and consultation with local communities; meaning they can take years of planning to deliver. Construction of any defences must also not alter the water’s flow or adversely affect other communities.

“Our number one priority is to reduce the risk of flooding for people, their homes, and businesses. We will continue to work closely with residents of Denton Holme, Willow Holme and Caldew as well as our partners to deliver the right defences that will provide the best standard of protection. We will keep members of the public up to date through every step of the process.”