Planning approval for new flood defence-Dulwich, Herne Hill

[Bluerevolution]

Planning approval granted for innovative Dulwich and Herne Hill flood prevention project

Published 27 March 2014

Southwark council logo

A ?3.745m scheme to tackle the risk of surface water and sewer flooding in Dulwich and Herne Hill was approved by Southwark Council?s planning committee last night.

A partnership between Southwark Council, Thames Water and the Environment Agency, the project sees the three organisations working together to deploy a number of innovative techniques across the area to create a Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS).

Work will be focused in Dulwich and Belair Parks and is due to begin in mid-April. This follows many months consulting with residents and local community groups.

The scheme of works include the construction of grass covered banks to channel rain water towards drainage points, a new wetland area in Belair Park and more trees and shrubs in Dulwich Park to soak up rainwater. Underground tanks will also be installed in the parks providing storage for rainwater which will be gradually released into the sewer system over time.

The measures in the Dulwich and Herne Hill scheme are designed for extreme weather experienced over a short period of time. In 2004, flooding caused over ?1 million worth of damage in Herne Hill as a result of one month?s rain falling in just two hours.

Councillor Barrie Hargrove, Cabinet Member for the Environment, Transport and Recycling, says:

"I am delighted that works can now begin on the Dulwich and Herne Hill flood alleviation scheme. The devastating flood damage across Southern England earlier in the year serves as a stark reminder of the importance of effective flood defence measures.

"This proactive scheme will ensure that the homes and local businesses in the Dulwich and Herne Hill area will be protected against extreme weather conditions, without damaging the landscape of our well-loved parks."

Mark Taylor, Head of programme delivery for Thames Water, says:

"We know that sewer flooding is a miserable experience so we?re pleased to be working with Southwark Council and the Environment Agency on this flood alleviation scheme in Dulwich. It is an important project for the community which relies heavily on collaboration between all three parties. Receiving approval for this scheme is a good step forward and we will continue to maintain our dialogue with residents and business owners as the work progresses."

Mark Douch, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager from the Environment Agency, says:

"Many properties in London are at risk of surface water flooding and this scheme will help reduce the risk to homes and businesses in Dulwich and Herne Hill. Southwark Council have made significant strides in taking on their new role as Lead Local Flood Authority and this scheme demonstrates their commitment to reducing flood risk in the area. The Environment Agency is pleased to be able to support Southwark Council and Thames Water in delivering this scheme."

Updates on the progress of the project will be found on Southwark Council?s website. Information boards will also be sited throughout the parks advising visitors of the areas where work is in progress. The project is due to be completed in November this year.

Source: http://www.southwark.gov.uk/news/article/1634/planning_approval_granted_for_innovative_dulwich_and_herne_hill_flood_prevention_project

[Otta]

All sounds very sensible. No doubt someone will moan, but seems like a no brainer.