Plymouth park to get flood protection cash

It will create wildlife habitats too

A Plymouth park is that has suffered repeated flooding is to receive funding for schemes towards better protection. 

Plymouth City Council, working in partnership with the Environment Agency and South West Water Limited applied to the government for money for work at Trefusis Park, Lipson Vale by storing water during heavy rainfall nd improving drainage.

The council says it will also create wildlife-rich habitats through new seasonal wetland features and improve access and other facilities as part of the improvements.

It says "during the public consultation, respondents raised some concerns about the seasonal wetland basins, safety and security of the park in general, and the removal of the existing car park.

"Residents of Trefusis Gardens were also opposed to solid blocks of trees being planted in front of their properties.  All these concerns are being taken into account during the development of the detailed design and are addressed in the consultation report. 

"Many people stated that extra seating is required within the park, so the design team will consider this as part of the detailed design.  Many of the respondents also expressed wider aspirations for general improvements to the park including paths, play facilities, entrances, information about the park’s history and signage.  

"Whilst these do not fall within the parameters of the current proposed scheme, we hope to consider at least some of the suggestions, once the detailed design of the seasonal wetland basins is complete, and subject to securing funding.

The Lipton Park scheme is one of six in in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset that are among the first to receive part of the government’s £100 million Frequently Flooded Allowance. 
  
Falmouth integrated urban drainage management is one project that will receive funding towards its total cost. The Environment Agency is working with South West Water and Cornwall Council to improve the surface water drainage network around Market Strand and the Prince of Wales Pier. This will reduce the impact of surface water flooding to shops and residential properties, allowing further growth in a town centre waterfront location.   
  
The funding is for areas where 10 or more properties have flooded twice or more in the last 10 years. These communities are often smaller and can face barriers to access funding due to the relative complexity and cost of building flood defences compared to the size of the community.  
  
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said:  “We know only too well the devastating impact that flooding can have on communities and businesses, as we face more extreme weather brought about by climate change.    
    
“I am determined that we do whatever we can to prevent flooding that affects so many towns and villages across the country.