MAJOR roadworks are expected as vital protection work to prevent flooding is carried out along the South Brink at Wisbech. The Environment Agency said the work will help to protect around 10,500 homes and 1,200 businesses in the town. The flood defence wo

MAJOR roadworks are expected as vital protection work to prevent flooding is carried out along the South Brink at Wisbech.

The Environment Agency said the work will help to protect around 10,500 homes and 1,200 businesses in the town.

The flood defence works will be on the South Brink, between Cromwell Road and Town Bridge and will start on Monday.

Andrew Usborne, of the Environment Agency, is project manager for the Wisbech scheme.

He said: "The works on the South Brink are vital to protect homes and businesses in Wisbech from flooding.

"Our changing climate brings with it the threat of heavier, more prolonged rainfall. "These works highlight the Environment Agency's commitment to maintaining a high standard of protection against flooding for the people of Wisbech."

The South Brink scheme will include the replacement of sheet steel piles which will then be clad in concrete and bricks. It is expected to take around six months to complete.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place on the South Brink for up to four weeks from Monday.

After this, the road will be closed to traffic until early December and diversions will be in place.

Andrew said: "We understand that these works will cause some inconvenience to the public but they are vital if Wisbech is to be adequately protected against flooding in the future.

"Our contractors will be working six days a week until the new piles are installed to ensure the road closure is over as soon as possible and before Christmas.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused but hope people will understand it is imperative we undertake this work to protect the town."

The footpath along South Brink will remain open throughout the flood defence improvement works, which are being carried out on behalf of the Environment Agency by contractors Interserve.

An information poster and suggestion box will be available at Wisbech Tourist Information Centre and regular updates will be posted on a display board in Market Square.

The Environment Agency is committed to reducing the risk of flooding, but in the unfortunate event of it occurring, also providing timely warnings and advice on how people can be best prepared and making sure people stay safe should flooding happen.

As part of its work to help people protect themselves, their families and their properties, the Environment Agency is hosting a flood fair in Wisbech on Thursday October 8.

The event, hosted in partnership with Fenland District Council, will enable people to get advice on how to prepare for flooding and give them information on where to get help.

A representative will also be on hand to give information on the South Brink flood defence scheme.

The flood fair is taking place at the Thomas Clarkson Community College between 5pm and 8pm.

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