Norman Baker MP reviewed the progress of the Cliffe flood defences in Lewes on Friday where work has now started to reduce flood risk for residents and businesses in the area.
Norman Baker MP reviewed the progress of the Cliffe flood defences in Lewes on Friday where work has now started to reduce flood risk for residents and businesses in the area.
Lewes lies within the floodplains of the River Ouse and its tributaries which make it vulnerable to flooding. In 2000 the Cliffe area of Lewes was one part of the town that suffered from the severe flooding. The Environment Agency secured £1.5m funding from the Regional Flood Defence Committee for the work at Cliffe which is expected to be completed by winter 2009.
Norman Baker MP said: “I am very pleased that progress on flood defences is finally being made for those areas not covered by the first Malling scheme.
“It is vitally important that the cliff scheme in Lewes is put in place. I also welcome the grant given to Lewes District Council by the government – the second highest in the country.”
Ian Nunn, Asset Systems Management Team Leader, said: “We are committed to improving Lewes' flood protection and have dedicated more than £3.3 million for projects to improve defences in the town since the 2000 floods. We are pleased to show Norman Baker MP the progress we have made at Riverlodge Surgery that will help reduce the risk of flooding for 209 properties in the Cliffe area.
“To ensure we continue to keep people safe, the footpath is temporarily closed along the river bank linking Cliffe to Tesco. We would like to thank people for their continued patience for any inconvenience whilst we do these essential improvements. We have now provided a temporary crossing across Phoenix Causeway. As soon as it is safe to do so, we will reopen the path.”
The Environment Agency takes measures to reduce flood risk where possible but not all flooding can be prevented. Those living in areas at risk should take precautions to reduce the impact on their homes and properties. To find out about the flood warning service and how you can protect yourself and your home, call Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodline.
