Flood storage tanks will protect homes

GIANT storage tanks are to be used to help reduce flood risks at more than 100 homes at Warrington.
The borough council’s public realm team is on target to reduce the risks of flooding to about 135 homes in Densham Avenue and Gough Avenue, Longford – an area that has been subject to serious flooding during periods of heavy rainfall for more than 30 years.
Storage tanks are currently being put underground in green space to the rear of properties in Densham Avenue. During heavy rainfall the water will be stored here until existing water levels in sewers and streams subside.
The council is working in partnership with Golden Gates Housing Trust and Harry Fairclough PLC, the local firm appointed to design and install the system.
The tanks can hold the same volume of water as an Olympic size swimming pool or about 2000 cubic metres.
Cllr Linda Dirir, the borough council’s executive member for highways, transportation an climate change said: “Following research into a number of options it was agreed that this was the best solution to reduce the risks of flooding.
“The tanks are quite a spectacle and will play a huge part in protecting people and their homes and we are all looking forward to the completion of this important project.”
The council contributed £155,000, and secured £610,000 through a bidding process from the Environment Agency. The scheme started in March, and is on target to complete by the end of June 2012.
Pictured: Cllr Linda Dirir and David Boyer, assistant director for development and public protection at the council, with one of the tanks and, top picture: work in progress on the site.