Work starts on £7m flood alleviation scheme to protect Rotherham community
WORK has started on a £7m flood alleviation scheme which shoudl protect homes, businesses and roads in the area.
Rotherham Council is working with the Environment Agency on the scheme.
During heavy rainfall, water levels in Whiston Brook can rise quickly, increasing the risk of flooding.
The project will improve the way water moves through Whiston, increasing the capacity of the drainage system.
The scheme includes improvements to sections of the watercourse that currently flow through culverts beneath roads, as well as the creation of a new flood storage area.
During heavy rain, excess water will be temporarily diverted there, then released once water levels have reduced.
Cllr Lynda Marshall , Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Waste Services, Leisure and Green Spaces, said: “We know the impact flooding has had in Whiston and how disruptive it can be when water levels rise quickly during heavy rain.
“This scheme is an important step in reducing that risk and helping to protect the village in the future. By investing in long-term flood management, we are improving how water is handled across the area and helping to safeguard homes, businesses and local roads.
“We will continue to keep residents informed as the work progresses and will do everything we can to minimise disruption while this important project is delivered.”
David Ferguson, South Yorkshire Partnerships & Strategic Overview Advisor at Environment Agency said: “Flooding can have a devastating impact on communities.
“The Environment Agency is pleased to see the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme begin construction. This marks an important milestone and we look forward to working closely with Rotherham Council to help deliver the scheme, providing long-term benefits and helping to reduce flood risk to local residents and businesses.”
Work is expected to end next Spring.
To allow the work to take place safely, temporary road closures will be needed at different stages. Warning signs and clearly marked alternative routes will be in place, and every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum.
The Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme forms part of the Council’s wider work to reduce flood risk and support communities during severe weather.