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£800k Environment Agency investment aids South Tyneside flood reducing scheme

The second phase of a major scheme to reduce the risk of flooding on a South Tyneside housing estate is now underway.

A £2.5m project which involved upgrading the surface water drainage system on the Fellgate Estate in Jarrow was completed earlier this year.

Now, thanks to £800k from the Environment Agency, South Tyneside Council and Northumbrian Water are building new sustainable drainage systems at or near Fellgate Primary School, Rochester Square, St Joseph’s Primary School, Lawnsway, Durham Drive (East), Lincoln Way and Durham Drive (West).

As part of the works, a pond will be created on the playing fields of St Joseph’s School, and another at Fellgate School, creating educational focal points for the local community. The new systems will help to reduce the surface water flood risk in the area.

Northumbrian Water’s sustainable sewerage manager, Martin Kennedy, said: “The changing climate means that flash flooding is now more frequent.

“Schemes like this demonstrate the importance of, and our commitment to, working in partnership to manage surface water in a sustainable and innovative way.

“The fact that we can also enhance the community’s local environment by creating the ponds is a significant added benefit.”

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: “The upgraded surface water system and new sustainable drainage systems will jointly reduce the risk of flooding from various areas.

“We understand the distress and anxiety that flooding causes which is why remain committed to doing all we can to alleviate the risk of flooding happening in the first place.”

“In addition to the flood protection, these drainage systems will also create ecological benefits by increasing natural habitats and biodiversity.”

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