Work on Kendal’s flood defence scheme has been delayed due to the relocation of a high voltage energy cable.
The Environment Agency said SP Electricity North West was due to move the cable, which runs alongside the River Kent at at Aynam Road before Christmas.
The agency’s contractors VolkerStevin were due to start work on the next phase of flood defences in January.
Preparation work at Aynam Road, in the centre of the town, has been completed. Vegetation has been removed, and scaffolding has been erected along the riverbank which will be used to secure and protect BT cabling during the construction of the new flood defences.
However, SP Electricity North West said the relocation of the cable was now planned for late February. Work on the flood defences cannot be carried out until the cable was moved, the Environment Agency said.
Environment Agency project manager Glenn Mitchell said: “We are reliant upon third-party electricity suppliers carrying out the relocation of the live line before we can get started on the construction of the flood defences, as it currently lies under the proposed work area.
“For this cable, SP Electricity North West have a permanent diversion solution, moving it in a new position away from the river. Work began on the diversion some months ago but seem to have again stalled.
“Once the electricity cable has been moved, we will start construction. The planned works along Aynam Road consists of 730 metres of new flood defence wall that will be stone clad, and over 400 metres between Jennings Yard footbridge and Nether Bridge of glass panels to maintain the beautiful view over the Kent River.
“Between Millers Bridge and Jennings Yard footbridge we will construct an L-shaped retaining wall, which does not require deep foundations or piling work.
“At Miller Bridge, Webster style heritage railings will create a gateway to a new riverside walk. Various methods of construction will be used due to the varying ground conditions. Where we need to create deeper foundations, piling will be required to create the strong foundation needed.
“Once the walls have been completed, there’ll be extensive landscaping along the length of Aynam Road. A variety of seed mix, wildflowers, shrubs, bulbs and trees will enhance the riverbank. In locations where space is limited, smaller shrubs and bulbs will provide low level ground cover, providing enhanced habitat for wildlife.”
When completed, the Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme will better protect over 1,920 homes and 2,250 businesses from the impact of flooding.
SP Electricity North West has been contacted for comment.
