PLANS to finally install permanent flood barriers at Beales Corner in Bewdley have taken a huge step forward.
The Environment Agency has submitted an application for permanent flood defences on the Wribbenhall side of the town following three consecutive years of flooding, in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
The application was received by Wyre Forest District Council within the last month, shortly before the river levels would rise again following heavy rainfall. The plan is now Pending consideration.
If the plan is approved, work is expected to start on the defences later this year.
Temporary flood defences were installed on Severn Side and Beales Corner last week as a flood warning was issued.
The river level peaked at 4.85m on Sunday (January 15) with levels dropping in the week.
The new Environment Agency scheme includes a combination of demountable flood barriers and permanent raised walls with glass panels on top to maintain views across the river.
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Anthony Perry, operations manager for the Environment Agency said: “The planning application for a permanent flood risk management scheme at Beales Corner, Bewdley has now been submitted to Wyre Forest District Council and is in the statutory consultation period.
“The scheme will reduce flood risk for homes and businesses in the Beales Corner area and keep the main Kidderminster and Stourport roads into the town open at times of flood.
“Subject to planning permission from the council, we are hoping to commence the initial service diversions for the scheme in the spring, so we can carry out the main construction work in the summer.
“The permanent barriers will operate to a higher standard and with greater resilience than the current temporary barriers. They are planned to follow a similar line to the temporary barriers, and our aim is to achieve the same level of flood protection as the Severnside Flood Scheme on the opposite bank of the river.
“In addition to constructing a permanent flood wall and glass panels, the scheme incorporates a section of demountable barriers that can be deployed on the road next to the bridge in the event of flooding.”
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