The Environment Agency has submitted a planning application for the Portreath Flood Alleviation Scheme. This investment aims to protect homes, businesses, and community facilities in Portreath from flooding.
Portreath faces significant flood risk, being one of three communities in the South West Flood Risk Management Plan identified as high risk. The village is in a rapid response catchment, where water levels can rise quickly during heavy rain, leaving little time for action.
The proposed scheme includes improvements to the historic stream channel to increase its capacity, replacement of restrictive footbridges, and a new flow control structure to manage flood water. Measures to protect structures from erosion and better access for maintenance are also part of the plans.
Ben Johnstone, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly at the Environment Agency, stated that flood risk in Portreath is serious and increasing. He added that the scheme will strengthen and improve flood defences, helping the community prepare for the impacts of climate change.
The scheme also aims to support nature recovery through managing invasive species and planting native trees, shrubs, and streamside vegetation. It is expected to have no impact on bathing water quality and will protect water quality long term. The proposals will also support the continued operation of the historic Portreath Tunnel, a flood defence asset.