Shropshire Star

Wharfage closed in Ironbridge as flood barrier investigation work begins

A four-week road closure to investigate improving Ironbridge's flood defences has begun.

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Flood barriers in Ironbridge

The Environment Agency said The Wharfage in the town would be closed for the majority of the next four weeks – until Sunday, May 16.

The closure is to allow for ground investigation work, part of the efforts to see if the barriers which protect the town from flooding can be improved.

It comes after the agency confirmed earlier this year that it was looking at whether a more permanent scheme could be provided to protect the town.

Depending on the findings of the investigation the resurfacing of the road in the area will now take place in September.

The developments come after Ironbridge was hit by its worst flooding in years during February and March last year.

Gouging

At one point the temporary barriers which protect properties along The Wharfage started to fail, with water breaching the line.

The pressure of the water also saw barriers pushed backwards, gouging marks out of the road surface.

A statement from the Environment Agency said: "The Wharfage was due to be resurfaced earlier this year but had to be delayed due to the impact of Storm Christoph and resulting rise in river levels.

"Whilst it is recognised that the ground investigation works will cause some impact to the local community and visitors, it is essential work to inform the engineering design for the new road surface and improve the resilience of the existing temporary defences when deployed."

The statement added: "Subject to the outcome of the investigation, the resurfacing of The Wharfage is now planned for September 2021 to minimise disruption to businesses during the summer months and before the main winter flooding season."

Telford & Wrekin Council will be delivering and supervising the works on behalf of the Environment Agency.