ALMOST 200 homes and businesses in Nelson are now protected from flooding following the completion of a £2million scheme.
The Environment Agency’s flood alleviation scheme has reduced the risk of flooding to just over 190 properties near Walverden Water and Hendon Brook.
Launched in May 2010, the year-long project was completed in two stages.
The latest, in Southfield Street, Brook Street, Netherfield Road, Sagar Street and Leeds Road, has included raising existing flood walls, repairs to channel walls and culverts, removal of a redundant weir and sluice from the channel and clearing debris.
Local businesses directly affected have contributed around £150,000 to the scheme.
Agency project manager Eddie Goddard, said: “Our works have increased the capacity of the channel which carries Walverden Water and reduced the risk of collapse of dilapidated structures which could block the channel and cause flooding.
“Where possible, we have removed sections of underground culvert so the river is visible again for people to enjoy.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here