COMMUNITIES across Worcestershire are being urged to plan ahead this autumn to reduce the impact flooding may have on their homes and businesses.
In the Midlands, more than 112,000 properties are at risk of flooding, with the UK experiencing more frequent and intense extreme weather due to climate change.
Despite continuing drought conditions in the region, people are warned not to be complacent about the risk of flooding. The dry conditions of recent months mean that the ground is hard and compacted, increasing the risk of localised surface water flooding.
Members of the public can check their long-term flood risk using the Environment Agency’s free service, sign up for flood warnings by phone, text or email and take steps to protect themselves from future flooding, including preparing a flood kit.
Work led by Environment Agency and its partners in the West Midlands to manage flood risk includes recently completed schemes at Beales Corner in Bewdley and Toronto Close in Worcester.
Charlie Chandler, area flood risk manager for the Environment Agency in the West Midlands, said: “We know the devastating impact that flooding can have, which is why protecting people and communities is our top priority.
“We are working to reduce flood risk by using Property Flood Resilience, Natural Flood Management and schemes like the recently completed Beales Corner in Worcestershire.
“We urge members of the public to check their flood risk, sign up for flood warnings and to follow the advice to protect themselves from future flooding.”
NFM uses natural processes to reduce the risk of flooding.
These processes protect, restore, and mimic the natural functions of catchments, floodplains and the coast to slow and store water.
Recent examples include river restoration in Gloucestershire, the installation of ‘in ditch seepage barriers’ on a farm in Herefordshire and woody debris dams in Worcestershire.
In Worcestershire, ponds, scrapes and woody debris dams are being installed in the Kyre Brook catchment, this work will help reduce the flood risk in Tenbury Wells.
This work is being carried out by Worcestershire County Council and Severn Rivers Trust.
