BEWDLEY’S new flood defence system passed its first real test with flying colours when Storm Claudia arrived.
The scheme, which was completed by the Environment Agency (EA), delivered a major upgrade to the town’s flood defences, benefiting 50 properties and maintaining access to businesses for decades to come.
The defence, which runs from Pleasant Harbour House to Millside Court, includes flood walls, gates and demountable barriers, similar to the system at Severnside.
When flooding is predicted, trained Environment Agency teams close flood gates and put up the demountable barriers to prevent floodwater from the Severn entering the area.
Key roads in the town will remain dry at times of flood, helping to maintain access to schools.
Before the scheme was implemented, temporary barriers were used but they consisted of 2,000 individual parts and took up to 12 hours to fully install.
The new permanent demountable defences provide a more sustainable long-term solution for the community.
Glass panels fitted atop sections of the flood wall will ensure there are uninterrupted views of the town whilst providing essential protection.
Reflecting on the first test posed by Storm Claudia, the Environment Agency said the new Beales Corner scheme was operational since last Friday and remained in place for days.
They added the flood water reached the bottom of the new flood wall and did not reach the demountable barriers and glass panels sections.
