£20M project progresses, planning summer 2025. Weirs replaced, consultation soon. Flood defense is key.
They replace the weir and gate with rock weirs. The project design nears its end soon. Next, they will create detailed plans for the river.
A public consultation is set for May or June. They aim to submit a planning application this summer. The work should cost £15 to £20 million total. Most funds come from a DEFRA grant. This is for flood defense.
The Environment Agency works to develop plans. They are finishing up the project’s first design phase. They will start detailed designs next.
Some people criticize the project’s plan. Groups worry about dropping water levels. It could hurt leisure activities for some. The Agency says gate removal prevents flood risk.
The old gate is deteriorating now. It also became stuck before Storm Ciaran. Some like the river improvement plans. It could improve access and look better. Others worry about low river levels later.
The council also made a river plan. Their plan focuses on flood defense. They want to improve the town center’s look. The plan aims to be a focal point. The council suggests fishing platforms. They suggest walkways better than Gladstone Road. They want stepped seating near the Olympiad in the updates.