Partner Article

Work begins on Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme

Esh Construction has commenced work on the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme, which aims to reduce the risk of flooding in Whiston and protect homes, businesses and local roads.

Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council is working in partnership with the Environment Agency and appointed Esh’s civil engineering division to deliver the scheme. Most recently, Whiston experienced significant floods in October 2023, with high water levels exacerbated by surface water runoff and pressure on existing drainage infrastructure. Flooding has previously impacted homes, businesses and the local road network, including Howarth Road and Long Lane.

The project will provide a long-term reduction in flood risk by improving how water moves through Whiston and by increasing the capacity of the drainage system to deal with periods of heavy rainfall.

Michael Sherrard, Construction Manager at Esh, said: “We're looking forward to starting work on the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme and working alongside Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and the Environment Agency to deliver this important investment for the community.

"The scheme has been carefully developed to reduce flood risk through a combination of drainage improvements, increased watercourse capacity and new flood storage infrastructure. Once complete, it will help provide greater protection for homes, businesses and local roads during periods of heavy rainfall.”

The scheme includes improvements to sections of the watercourse that currently flow through culverts beneath roads, as well as the creation of a new flood storage area on adjacent land. During heavy rain, excess water will be temporarily stored within this area and then released at a controlled rate once water levels have reduced.

Work will take place at several locations across Whiston, including:

• Worrygoose Lane from Cow Rakes Lane to Greystones Road
• Little Common Lane/Royds Moor Hill
• Moorhouse Lane

To allow the work to take place safely, temporary road closures will be needed at different stages. Warning signs and clearly marked alternative routes will be in place, and every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum.

David Ferguson, South Yorkshire Partnerships & Strategic Overview Advisor at Environment Agency said: “Flooding can have a devastating impact on communities. 

“The Environment Agency is pleased to see the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme begin construction. This marks an important milestone and we look forward to working closely with Rotherham Council to help deliver the scheme, providing long-term benefits and helping to reduce flood risk to local residents and businesses.”

By slowing the flow of water and reducing pressure on existing drainage infrastructure, the project will help lower the risk of flooding to homes, businesses and key transport routes during storm events.

The Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme forms part of the Council’s wider work to reduce flood risk and support communities during severe weather.

Cllr Lynda Marshall , Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Waste Services, Leisure and Green Spaces, said: “We know the impact flooding has had in Whiston and how disruptive it can be when water levels rise quickly during heavy rain.

“This scheme is an important step in reducing that risk and helping to protect the village in the future. By investing in long-term flood management, we are improving how water is handled across the area and helping to safeguard homes, businesses and local roads.

“We will continue to keep residents informed as the work progresses and will do everything we can to minimise disruption while this important project is delivered.”

For more information about Esh Construction, visit www.eshgroup.co.uk 

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Patrick O'Kane .