The Environment Agency is hoping to reduce the risk of flooding of the Old Bedford River by spending £80,000 to dig out dirt from the river bed.

Wisbech Standard: The Environment Agency is removing accumulated silts and sediments from the Old Bedford River at Salter’s Lode to reduce flood risk.The Environment Agency is removing accumulated silts and sediments from the Old Bedford River at Salter’s Lode to reduce flood risk. (Image: Archant)

The agency is removing accumulated silts and sediments from the river at Salter’s Lode using two excavators. The silt will then be placed on the river banks after the work is completed in mid March.

20 metres of steel sheet piling has also been installed in the crest of the embankment near Lakes Farm Pumping Station to repair a leak in the bank.

The Old Bedford River is 30 kilometres long and forms part of the Ouse Washes system.

The Environment Agency maintains the Ouse Washes system yearly, which includes grass cutting, in-channel weed control, vegetation management, desilting and maintenance of structures.

John Faulkner of the Environment Agency said: “The desilting works are progressing well on the Old Bedford River. We have already completed around 800 metres of the three kilometres and are expecting to complete the rest by mid March at a total cost of £80,000.”