Controversial flood defence scheme in Kendal given go ahead

A flood defence scheme for Kendal expected to cost tens of millions of pounds has been approved by South Lakeland District Council.

The plans were put forward by the Environment Agency to limit the risk of a repeat of the damage caused by Storm Desmond in 2015.

The proposals include a four-mile glass flood wall along the River Kent, 14 flood gates and a new drainage channel to help stop the Stock Beck flood storage basin from overflowing.

But plans to fell almost 545 trees have angered environmental groups. They say the trees, many of which are on Aynam Road, have stood for decades and that alternative proposals have not been fully considered.

Storm Desmond damaged nearly 2,500 properties across South Lakeland and forced people to evacuate.