Work has begun on a flood protection project in Kent.

The Environment Agency (EA) is working in partnership with residents, Swale Borough Council, Faversham Town Council and Kent County Council to deliver the Front Brents flood alleviation scheme at Faversham.

The two-month project involves building a clay embankment between 600mm and 800mm high to protect numerous properties from flooding. The structure will be landscaped and will include openings to allow continued public access to the green and the creek, which will be sealed by timber flood barriers when required.


Mark Douch, Environment Manager for the EA, said: "When the works are complete, over 30 residences and businesses will benefit from protection against tidal flooding. By working in partnership with local residents and local authorities, we have developed a cost effective scheme which is sympathetic to the local environment. On average, for every £1 invested in protecting communities, £8 is saved in damage repair.

"It is our priority to do everything we can to protect people from flooding. This year the Environment Agency is on track to better protect 44,000 properties in England through its continued programme of investment in flood defence schemes. We are spending more than £2.3 billion to build flood schemes around the country, which will better protect 300,000 homes by 2021."

(LM/CD)