Essential flood defence initiative underway in Exeter

A programme of essential construction is to begin in Exeter this April as part of a comprehensive flood defence initiative.

The Environment Agency scheme is being delivered in partnership with Devon County Council and Exeter City Council. Crucially, more than 3,200 homes and businesses will be safeguarded by the end of 2018.

Over a nine week period, new flood defences will be built in the north of the city, necessitating the closure of Station Road near St David’s railway station. Here, two immense gates will be built on either side of the River Exe. When flooding is imminent these gates will close, protecting properties along both banks of the river. The considerable size of the foundations requires Station Road to close however.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Environmental Services commented: “This is an essential element of the flood defence scheme and these flood gates will reduce flood risk to hundreds of homes and businesses in the city. Every effort will be made to minimise disruption during the closure of Station Road, but the long term benefits will outweigh the short term inconvenience.”

The Environment Agency is also coordinating its efforts with Network Rail to ensure essential maintenance on a level crossing is carried out in tandem with the flood defence works. This foresight means that there will be no need for a separate closure in the near future.

Richard Cox, Project Manager for the scheme, concluded: “We’d like to thank commuters and others for their patience while we carry out these essential works. We regret that there will be inconvenience and we urge motorists to plan ahead and allow extra journey time. If people have questions regarding the diversion routes or works they can call the Exeter scheme information line on 07769 162338.”

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