Help for homes in flood risk area

The new scheme should protect 453 properties in the Avon Valley

A £4m flood defence scheme designed to protect homes in the Avon Valley has been launched.

The system, put in place by the Environment Agency and local authorities, will divert water away from Fordingbridge and Ringwood.

Both towns have a long history of flooding with businesses and homes badly hit by the December 2000 floods.

The defences include a new pumping station, a flood bypass channel and an upgraded drainage system.

They have been installed on the River Avon, Ashford Water and Allen Brook.

David Ayers, former Defra regional engineer, and Humphrey Temperley, chairman of Wessex Regional Flood Defence Committee, will unveil a plaque at the official launching ceremony.

A challenge

Nick Lyness, area flood risk manager for the Environment Agency, said: "The Avon Valley is a fantastic environment to live in, but there will always be a flood risk to properties.

"It has been a challenge to provide the right solutions to the complex sources of flooding at these locations, but the schemes at Downton, Fordingbridge and Ringwood will see a welcome reduction in the risk of flooding to 453 properties."

He added the scheme will help encourage wildlife conservation in the Avon area.