Could Fention flooding be a thing of the past?

Work starts next week

The end is in sight for floods in Fention, according to claims by East Devon District Council.

Work is to begin on the undertrack rail crossing for a new culvert pipe that is a key element to the village's flood scheme.

It is the third phase of a flood prevention scheme and will link to drainage works which will divert surface water from around the village.

The completed scheme will reduce the flood risk to the 65 homes plus help prevent disruption to the primary school and local transport.

The railway crossing work has been planned for many years but has been delayed due to its high risk, complex nature, and funding for the project.

However, the Network Rail’s contractors are making use of a five-day rail closure for works elsewhere on the railway with work starting on Bank Holiday Monday, 29 August.  

The scheme will involve the building of a works compound and a manhole chamber on either side of the railway, before making use of the railway closure for engineering works to place the culvert under the railway.

The work is due to completed by 7 October. 

The council doesn't want people to congregate on the highway bridge. They say it is too narrow with no footway and will have increased vehicle movements during the work.

Both sides of the railway are private property with no public access