Flood defence trial is a success

The barrier will keep roads in to Shrewsbury open in flooding

The first trial in the UK of a new flood defence system, along the River Severn, has proved successful.

A 200m section of the K system barrier was put up in Shrewsbury, between Coton Hill and Chester Street.

After drainage work is completed, the portable system will be ready to be used at the site of flooding risk.

The barrier should enable local properties to get insurance and keep two main roads open in a flood, said an Environment Agency spokesman.

The temporary and demountable barrier, made of steel and aluminium, differs from other flood defences as it does not need any foundation work and can be put up elsewhere.

'Reduce impact'

"The trial went really well, the system was easy to handle, we expected to put it up in five hours and we got it up in three," said Environment Agency engineer Anthony Crowther.

"This should reduced the risk of flooding for 20-30 homes and businesses in the area, which means they should be able to get insurance.

"And it should mean we can keep two main roads open in to Shrewsbury in flooding," he said.

"That will keep traffic coming in to town so the town centre keeps operating as normal, reducing the impact of flooding on businesses."