2,000 km of new flood defence walls, 20,000 tonne clay embankment and four new floodgates will protect thousands of homes.
After four years of disruptive works, the Environment Agency has announced completion of the first phase of its ambitious Preston and South Ribble flood risk management scheme.
Photo courtesy of Environment Agency
The extensive work was needed because previous flood defences, built in the 1920s and 1980s, had reached the end of their life. But there has also been an increased number of severe weather events due to climate change.
Some 2,000 km of new defence walls have been constructed, some topped with glass to maintain scenic views. The four new floodgates will remain open at most times, but can be quickly closed by Environment Agency staff when flood warnings are issued.
Specialist stonemasons were employed to ensure that the modern flood defences are in keeping with the historic, Grade II listed Penwortham Old Bridge area. For similar reasons, a concrete artist was engaged in work on the nearby gas pipe bridge.
As well as keeping homes and businesses safe from floodwater, the project has brought a range of benefits to the community, including the resurfacing of Miller Park and relandscaping of Broadgate Gardens.
There are benefits for the natural environment, too, with the planting of more than 14,000 trees and also the creation of an insect-friendly habitat at Ribble Sidings in Lower Penwortham.
The initiative is part of wider efforts to improve flood defences across the country. In 2024, the government committed to investing £2.65b into repairing and replacing existing defences and constructing new ones. Since then, more than 250 projects now completed, offering stronger protection to an estimated 62,000 properties.
Richard Knight, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, says: ‘The completion of this section of the Preston and South Ribble flood risk management scheme is a key milestone. During construction we overcame a number of challenges, most notably the difficult ground and bedrock conditions along Riverside. We thank local residents and businesses for their patience.
‘This scheme will help protect thousands of properties in the area from the devastating effects of flooding. Climate change is making extreme weather events more common, emphasising the need for improved defences along the rivers Ribble and Darwen.’
Cllr Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council, adds: ‘Climate change is increasing the risk of extreme weather events in the local area, so the completion of these extensive flood defences will make a huge difference in protecting our residents and their homes along the riverbank, should we experience extreme weather and risk of flooding in the future. Along with being safe from future flooding, we’re delighted to also have a fantastic and welcoming new entrance to Miller Park, which everyone can enjoy.
‘We thank the Environment Agency, contractors VolkerStevin, and everyone involved in the scheme for the great work involved in a project of this magnitude. We also thank residents and businesses in the area for their patience while works were ongoing.’
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