£20m flood scheme to protect Sandwell homes
A £20 million flood defence scheme in Sandwell to protect more than 1,400 homes and businesses is set to be given the green light by council chiefs.
The Environment Agency project aims to reduce the risk of flooding in Sandwell Valley and protect Forge Mill Farm in West Bromwich from damage.
It has been in the works for more than three years but council bosses are now due to give it the go-ahead at a meeting next week.
Chiefs admitted the work will ‘have a significant visual impact’ on the surrounding area, but said its safety benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
The first stage of work to strengthen the flood defences and river embankments is focused on Perry Barr and Witton. The second phase will focus on Sandwell Valley.
It has been recommended for approval by council planning officers.
A report for the meeting states: “The proposals are vital to public safety in managing any flooding issues for future generations but they will have a significant visual impact on the appearance of this important local area.
“However, I am satisfied that they would not harm the integrity of the area as designated Green Belt, a nature reserve or harm the Forge Mill Farm and Sandwell Valley as a popular visitor attraction.
“There will of course be a lengthy construction process that will cause general disruption but the overall benefits of the scheme outweight the drawback.”
Council leader Steve Eling said: “We do occasionally have flooding and it’s usually concentrated around the River Tame and the streams that flow into it.
“Last year and the year before we had some properties flooded and on a couple if occasions when there’s been heavy rain and water has risen very quickly it has done a lot of damage.
“Any help towards improving drainage into the Tame and along there has got to be welcomed.”
“I know that any damage or inconvenience for residents to their furniture, carpets cane be traumatic - so if that can be prevented everyone’s a winner.”
