A significant flood risk management project in Stoke-on-Trent has been completed, providing enhanced protection for 333 homes and unlocking regeneration potential in the city centre.
The Environment Agency’s Fowlea Brook Flood Risk Management Scheme delivers new flood walls, embankments and a flood gate, with over 500 metres of channel improvements designed to withstand extreme rainfall and future climate pressures.
The upgraded defences are intended to extend the lifespan of local infrastructure by up to 60 years, reduce flood risk and support economic development. Early benefits include housing developments worth around £15m already underway and planning activity for further residential and commercial sites valued at more than £60m.
Project works also incorporated environmental enhancements, including the removal of a barrier to reopen 6.5 km of waterway for fish migration and creating more natural habitats along the brook.
Cllr Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for regeneration, transport and infrastructure at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, described it as a ‘significant milestone’ for the city.
‘This project will provide long-term protection for homes, businesses, key infrastructure and any potential development on the surrounding brownfield land, helping to reduce the risk of flooding and giving residents, business owners and investors greater peace of mind,’ he said.
‘The project will help bring underused, former industrial and commercial land back into productive use, reinforcing our commitment to regenerating brownfield sites first wherever possible.’
