The £55 million Preston & South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme has completed its first phase, a major achievement in protecting thousands of homes and businesses along the Rivers Ribble and Darwen from flooding. The project's initial stages have focused on Broadgate and Riverside in Preston, alongside Lower Penwortham.
Work began in 2022, with key components including two kilometres of new flood defence walls, some incorporating glass panels to preserve views while maintaining structural integrity. Approximately 0.6 kilometres of existing defences at Frenchwood and Walton Green have been inspected and maintained. A new 20,000-tonne clay embankment has been constructed, along with the installation of four new floodgates activated by Environment Agency staff during flood warnings.
Richard Knight, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for the Environment Agency, hailed the completion as a 'critical milestone', acknowledging the challenges encountered during construction, particularly at Riverside. He expressed gratitude to local residents and businesses for their patience. Preston City Council Leader Councillor Matthew Brown echoed these sentiments, highlighting the vital role these defences play in protecting residents from extreme weather events driven by climate change.
The scheme has delivered community enhancements beyond direct flood protection. Miller Park features an improved entrance space with new surfacing and a 'Welcome to Miller Park' motif, while Broadgate Gardens have been relandscaped with new seating. A small insect-friendly habitat has been created at Ribble Sidings in Lower Penwortham. Nearly 14,000 trees have been planted as part of the scheme, including over 10,000 on the flood plain at Fishwick Bottoms. Stonemasons integrated modern defences sensitively with Grade II listed Penwortham Old Bridge.
This initiative is part of a broader £2.65 billion government commitment to invest in England's flood defences. The Environment Agency has been instrumental in delivering over 250 projects since 2024, providing enhanced protection for nearly 62,000 properties nationwide. Such investments can significantly reduce the financial burden of property damage and insurance premiums, contributing to greater economic stability and confidence.
The economic implications are substantial. Reduced flood risk can lead to lower insurance premiums for homeowners and businesses, making affected areas more attractive to potential residents and investors, thereby boosting local economies.