The Environment Agency is finally about to get work under way on a much needed flood defence scheme for Tenbury Wells after the government announced funding for the scheme in July.

The Agency will soon start consulting with locals about the scheme that will see a mix of new flood walls and embankments to help 120 residential and 145 commercial properties be more resilient to climate change.

Tenbury Wells lies within the flood plain of the River Teme and Kyre Brook. Tenbury has suffered from extensive flooding to large parts of the town on a number of occasions, most recently in November 2019 and in February 2020, when levels were just below those which occurred in 2007.

After the recent February floods, the Government committed an additional £4.9 million towards a scheme for Tenbury. The funding has allowed the Environment Agency to progress plans for the Tenbury Wells project.

Dave Edwards, Flood and Coastal Risk Management Team Leader, said:

“We’re delighted we can provide a flood scheme for the residents and businesses of Tenbury Wells, especially after the devastating floods they have experienced over recent years. We looked at all possible options and are grateful for the government funding that finally allowed us to move forward.

As the Environment Agency had already completed initial assessments and drawn up plans for the project, public consultation can start straightaway.

The consultation will start later this month, although discussions are still ongoing about whether consultation events can be done safely due the current coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions.

At a minimum residents will be able to submit their comments and will receive information through newsletters and latest updates via @EnvAgencyMids.

The proposed Tenbury Wells flood defence scheme will involve the construction of embankments and flood walls,

Ground investigation and site survey work will take place from November 2020 and the Agency is aiming to start construction by early 2022.