Cumberland Council is proud to announce the successful completion of the Flimby Flood Alleviation Scheme, a major project aimed at reducing the risk of flooding for properties in Flimby.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in protecting the community from the devastation caused by flooding events, such as the catastrophic impact of Storm Desmond in 2015, which affected 100 homes in the area.
The newly implemented scheme enhances flood protection to a 1.33% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) standard for 49 properties and reduces flood risk for many more. Key works included:
- Diversion of the Cat Gill watercourse to Bragg Beck.
- Installation of new surface water drainage systems in residential areas.
- Reconstruction and remediation of existing culverts, headwalls, and flood gates.
- Construction of a formal embankment and temporary storage cell.
- Implementation of 30 leaky dams and other Natural Flood Management measures by West Cumbria Rivers Trust.
The project, funded through a successful £1.7 million bid to Defra and the Environment Agency’s Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) Grant in Aid Fund, was delivered by Cubby Construction Ltd and completed in March 2024.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“I am pleased that these important works have been completed in Flimby, providing better protection to several properties that have previously suffered from flooding.
“The council’s investment, alongside partners, into flood alleviation projects is essential to provide the best protection for our communities, and to avoid the devastation that flooding can bring to people’s lives, their homes, and their families.
“I would like to thank the local community for their patience whilst these works were programmed and completed, our contractors, and all involved in the various projects around Cumberland to ensure communities are confident in having the best protection against flood-risk possible.”
This project exemplifies the collaborative efforts between Cumberland Council, Risk Management Authorities, affected residents, landowners, and other stakeholders to deliver lasting flood resilience for the region.
If residents or businesses in the area have any questions, they are asked to contact the Highways Hotline at 0300 373 3736, or email A596.flimby@cumbria.gov.uk
