As someone who saw the aftermath of the 2014 floods first hand, I speak from experience when I say the impact flooding causes on a community can be devastating. Thinking back to the damage suffered by homes, businesses and infrastructure 10 years ago reminds me why I am doing this job – I want to ensure communities can live more sustainably without the nagging fear of what a flood might bring.
We know climate change means extreme weather will be more likely, and the worry for local communities is when flooding will happen again. By creating a flood alleviation channel in two sections, one in Runnymede and the other in Spelthorne, the River Thames Scheme (RTS) is a large-scale project that can reduce the flood risk to 11,000 homes and 1,600 businesses.
In addition, the scheme will create an environment that is more climate adaptable, with new open green spaces, extra areas for wildlife and improved biodiversity. Sustainable travel is also key to the RTS – encouraging cycling or walking instead of using the car.
Late in 2022 we held a consultation and the comments you provided have helped us get to where we are today. I know there are some concerns, especially around Ferris Meadow Lake, the swimming lake off Ferry Lane, becoming part of the channel. We are listening and undertaking feasibility work on alternatives which may avoid the lake completely.
At our next consultation the plans for the flood channel will still show it passing through Ferris Meadow Lake. However, during the consultation, we will explain the ongoing work to look for alternative options and will welcome your suggestions.
As I lead the RTS through its journey, I want to challenge our engineers to deliver the best possible solutions. If making changes would improve the scheme, I will be happy to champion them. As Project Director, balancing stakeholder requirements is part of my job, but the challenge is to do this without compromising on our core aim – which is to better protect this community from flooding.
Jeanne Capey, Project Director
River Thames Scheme
For more information see:
- Watch the 'How a Flood Channel Works' animation
- Find out more about River Thames Scheme