Work starts to build Broadgate flood defences

Councillors Robert Boswell (left) and Carol Henshaw (right) visited Preston and South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme

Work has started on constructing vital flood defences along Broadgate and Riverside.

On Friday 11 November, councillors visited the Preston and South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme for an update on how work is progressing.

Preston City Councillors Carol Henshaw and Robert Boswell met with the Environment Agency and contractors VolkerStein to witness breaking ground on site.

Construction on the first phase of the new £54.7million scheme started with preliminary works to strengthen the sewer and divert services along Broadgate. Work has now started on the defences with piling for the foundations for the flood walls.

The flood scheme will help reduce the risk of flooding to around 5,000 homes and businesses along the River Ribble. Construction of phase one is expected to be complete by the end of 2024.

As part of the scheme, improvements to Broadgate Gardens will also be made, including pollinator-friendly flowers, better seating areas, and the planting of fruit trees.

Some trees had to be removed to provide space for the construction work to take place and to protect the new defence walls from being undermined by tree roots. However over 16,000 new trees will be planted as part of the scheme, this includes 13,000 trees at Fishwick Bottoms along the river.

Disruption to the local community will be minimised where possible and any road closures, diversions, and changes to parking will be communicated to residents in advance. Noise and vibration monitors will be in place during the works.

Councillor Carol Henshaw, who represents and lives in the City Centre Ward, and is a cabinet member for climate change, said: “It was helpful to discuss what’s happening with the flood scheme. I feel relieved that the flood defences are now underway and will better protect residents once completed.

“I’m pleased glass panels will be used in some areas so local people can continue to see and enjoy the river.

“I’m also happy to hear that a small orchard will be included in the improvements at Broadgate Gardens, which will benefit the community.”

Pete Miles, Flood Risk Manager for the Environment Agency in Lancashire said: “Many communities in the areas have experienced first-hand the devastating effects that flooding has on homes and business.

“With climate change giving us wetter winters, and the risk of flooding set to increase, the Environment Agency is taking steps and planning for the future – helping to ensure communities living close to the River Ribble are better protected and more resilient to climate change.”

For more information, residents can visit the Information Hub based at BAC/EE Social and Sports Association, off Broadgate, which is open Wednesdays and Tuesdays between 10am and 3pm.

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