CHANCELLOR George Osborne visited work on Warrington’s £23 million flood defence project to see first hand how government money is being invested to reduce the risk of flooding.
He was joined by his new Commercial Secretary Lord Deighton, who is responsible for infrastructure delivery, to see the new scheme which will help protect 2,000 properties.
The prject has been made possible thanks to a government grant of £18 million, and a partnership between the Environment Agency and Warrington Borough Council, who are jointly funding the new flood defences through the new Partnerships Funding Scheme.
Lord Deighton recognised the wider value of schemes, like Warrington, as the catalyst for regeneration and growth.
He said: “This project is an excellent example of how investing in vital projects creates jobs and boosts the local economy.
“The Government has made infrastructure a priority and it’s great to see we are successfully working in partnership with other organisations to deliver the infrastructure the UK needs.”
This was echoed by the Chancellor, who commented on the valuable role of the community and partnership-working in ensuring that these schemes deliver a wide number of benefits.
Steve Moore director of the North West Environment Agency said: “We welcome the Chancellor’s visit as it as a great opportunity for him to see a large-scale flood defence scheme in construction.
“Warrington has been on the cusp of major flooding several times, and the weather we have experienced this summer highlights how essential this scheme will be.”
“We prioritise our funding so that we protect as many people and properties as possible, but even with the support of government funding, this scheme would not have gone ahead without the support and funding provided by Warrington Borough Council, and the support of the local community.”
Andy Farrall Executive Director for Environment and Regeneration at Warrington Council said: “Schemes such as this protect homes and businesses which is a key element of the Warrington Means Business programme, which aims to bring about significant regeneration and development in Warrington town centre and on the waterfront.”
Preliminary works are almost complete in Victoria Park and along Knutsford Road, meaning building work will begin shortly in Latchford. This phase of construction is expected to be complete in May 2013, after which the next phases of construction in Howley, Padgate, Woolston, Cinnamon Brow and Westy will begin.
Even with new flood defences in place, you can never entirely remove the risk of flooding. It is important that you prepare for this by phoning our Floodline on 0845 988 1188, to find out if you can sign up for free flood warnings.
For more information on developing a flood plan, putting together a flood kit and other ways of preparing for flooding visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood
