Drop-in session for £2m Keswick flood defences

Credit: PA

Plans for new flood defences in Keswick are set to go on show.

Houses and businesses were left underwater in 2009 and 2015 after storms hit the county.

Cumbria County Council has developed a scheme to protect the Penrith Road area from surface water flooding.

Map showing Penrith Road in Keswick Credit: ITV

The work is expected to cost around £2m and will see :

  • The construction of a new flood storage attenuation pond at Springs Field.

  • A new pumping station underneath or adjacent to Penrith Road, which will discharge in to the River Greta.

  • Protection measures to enhance the protection and resilience of houses and businesses between Ambleside Road and Penrith Road, with improved drainage.

Surface water flooding happens when rainwater does not drain away or soak into the earth, instead it lies on or flows over the ground.

Commenting on the project, Cumbria County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport said:

Flood water covers the a road in Keswick, 2009. Credit: PA

Construction work is expected to start in August 2019.

Members of the public are invited to attend a drop-in session taking place at Keswick Library to discuss and ask any questions about the project.