Groundbreaking Flood Risk Management Scheme Underway in Littleborough
Littleborough, UK – The Environment Agency’s ambitious Flood Risk Management Scheme, designed to reduce the risk of flooding to approximately 1,000 properties and vital infrastructure in Rochdale and Littleborough, has officially entered construction in Littleborough. This innovative project, which combines modern flood prevention techniques with environmentally sustainable practices, is set to make a significant impact on the region's flood resilience.
The centerpiece of the construction involves modifications to existing flood defences along the River Roch, with the introduction of specially designed reservoirs. These reservoirs will serve a dual purpose: safely capturing excess water and silt during heavy rainfall before gradually releasing it back into the river in a controlled manner. This approach will mitigate downstream flooding, reducing risks for residents and safeguarding key infrastructure such as Rochdale town centre, The Butts, and the historic town hall.
Notably, the foundations for the new flood defence system incorporate biodegradable, ecologically friendly materials, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. In addition to these innovative construction methods, the project includes elements of reforestation to offset carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and further bolster local environmental health.
The scheme, which earned a prestigious award in 2024 for its forward-thinking design and environmental considerations, is being led by the Environment Agency in close partnership with Rochdale Borough Council. Once completed, it will protect over 700 homes and nearly 500 businesses, providing a substantial boost to the security and resilience of the region.
Nick Pearson, the Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, emphasised the importance of the project, explaining that decreasing the risk of floods is a top priority.
The project has been lauded for its comprehensive approach to flood management, addressing upstream challenges to reduce the risk in downstream urban centres. By intercepting excess river water at strategic points, the system will significantly reduce the likelihood of flooding in high-risk areas, giving residents and business owners peace of mind.
As climate change continues to amplify flood risks across the UK, schemes like this highlight the importance of proactive, sustainable solutions. The Rochdale and Littleborough Flood Risk Management Scheme promises to be a model for future flood prevention initiatives, blending engineering ingenuity with environmental stewardship.
Construction efforts are well underway, with the community eagerly awaiting the completion of this landmark project that will safeguard lives, properties, and businesses for generations to come.
The proposal for better flood defences in Rochdale town centre has been a pressing issue for many residents, particularly in the wake of the devastating floods that struck the area near the end of 2015. The disaster left large sections of the town severely impacted, sparking a strong desire among the community for improved protection against such events.
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The centerpiece of the construction involves modifications to existing flood defences along the River Roch, with the introduction of specially designed reservoirs. These reservoirs will serve a dual purpose: safely capturing excess water and silt during heavy rainfall before gradually releasing it back into the river in a controlled manner. This approach will mitigate downstream flooding, reducing risks for residents and safeguarding key infrastructure such as Rochdale town centre, The Butts, and the historic town hall.
Notably, the foundations for the new flood defence system incorporate biodegradable, ecologically friendly materials, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. In addition to these innovative construction methods, the project includes elements of reforestation to offset carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and further bolster local environmental health.
The scheme, which earned a prestigious award in 2024 for its forward-thinking design and environmental considerations, is being led by the Environment Agency in close partnership with Rochdale Borough Council. Once completed, it will protect over 700 homes and nearly 500 businesses, providing a substantial boost to the security and resilience of the region.
Nick Pearson, the Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, emphasised the importance of the project, explaining that decreasing the risk of floods is a top priority.
The project has been lauded for its comprehensive approach to flood management, addressing upstream challenges to reduce the risk in downstream urban centres. By intercepting excess river water at strategic points, the system will significantly reduce the likelihood of flooding in high-risk areas, giving residents and business owners peace of mind.
As climate change continues to amplify flood risks across the UK, schemes like this highlight the importance of proactive, sustainable solutions. The Rochdale and Littleborough Flood Risk Management Scheme promises to be a model for future flood prevention initiatives, blending engineering ingenuity with environmental stewardship.
Construction efforts are well underway, with the community eagerly awaiting the completion of this landmark project that will safeguard lives, properties, and businesses for generations to come.
The proposal for better flood defences in Rochdale town centre has been a pressing issue for many residents, particularly in the wake of the devastating floods that struck the area near the end of 2015. The disaster left large sections of the town severely impacted, sparking a strong desire among the community for improved protection against such events.
Among those who have raised the topic in recent years is Jordan Eves, the Rochdale Valiant founder, and editor, and a local political candidate who ran for the Balderstone & Kirkholt ward in 2022 and 2023. Although ultimately unsuccessful in his election bids, Mr. Eves included the idea of enhanced flood defences in his campaign pitch, acknowledging the lasting concerns of Rochdale residents who had called for action since the 2015 floods and throughout subsequent political cycles, including the 2019 general election.
Mr. Eves’ recognition of the issue reflects an ongoing dialogue that has been carried forward by both current and recent elected officials, as well as Rochdale’s civic management. Over the years, these stakeholders have worked to transform the community's demand for better flood protection into tangible progress, moving the concept of a robust flood defence system closer to reality.
Mr. Eves’ recognition of the issue reflects an ongoing dialogue that has been carried forward by both current and recent elected officials, as well as Rochdale’s civic management. Over the years, these stakeholders have worked to transform the community's demand for better flood protection into tangible progress, moving the concept of a robust flood defence system closer to reality.
While the efforts surrounding the project are not solely attributable to any one individual, the inclusion of the issue in local election campaigns and public discussions underscores its significance to the town. As the memories of the 2015 disaster remain vivid for many residents, the drive to prevent a recurrence has become a collective imperative, one that continues to shape Rochdale’s political and civic agendas.
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