Luke Myer MP has acknowledged the significant progress made by stakeholders involved in the Loftus Property Flood Resilience Project. In the latest meeting on the 15th November 2024 along with the Environment Agency (EA), Northumbrian Water (NWL), Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council (RCBC) and the Cabinet Member for Highways, Luke specifically praised the crucial initiative, focused on safeguarding 22 properties at risk of flooding from Loftus Beck.
The project funded by the Environment Agency, has now reached an important milestone with bespoke flood doors and gates being manufactured, with installation expected before Christmas. These measures will provide essential protection to homes in East Crescent, St Hilda’s Place, and Arlington Street.
Luke has praised the collaborative efforts of all involved, recognising the effective partnership between them all, ward councillors and residents. Their coordination and open communication has ensured the project remains on track to be completed before Christmas and residents are being kept informed.
In addition to the flood resilience works, the representative for Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland, highlighted the recent steps taken to address Loftus’ long-standing flooding challenges, including the provision of sandbags, drainage network improvements, upgrades to the Loftus Beck early warning system by the EA and the drainage work carried out by Northumbrian Water. These measures, combined with the larger flood protection works, reflect the commitment of all stakeholders to safeguarding homes and improving community resilience.
He said, “The installation of Loftus flood doors is now approved and marks a significant step forward in our commitment to flood alleviation in East Cleveland. This specialist work is proceeding smoothly, with all residents affected, fully informed and reassured about the timeline.
“In addressing these historic flooding issues, I have been encouraged by the response I have received to requested collaborative working between Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, the Environment Agency, Northumbrian Water, local ward councillors and residents which remains crucial to overcoming long-standing flooding challenges.
“I will continue to ensure issues felt on the ground are progressed by our officials through regular meetings, site meetings and a committed approach.”
Main points discussed at the meeting were:
RCBC Update
Work on Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures for the 22 properties will commence next week and continue for a four-week period, concluding in mid-December. Updates and photos will be shared as the works progress. One property has decided not to partake.
In the interim, sandbags and pumps have been deployed locally to address any potential weather events until all measures are fully implemented.
Ongoing liaison with emergency services, Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL), the Environment Agency (EA), and the Cleveland Emergency Planning Unit will continue regarding any predicted adverse weather conditions.
Environment Agency (EA) Update
The flood warning service for Loftus has been modified, with recalibrated gauge levels for the beck. This adjustment lowers the warning threshold, allowing more response time and advance warning for residents. The service will continue to evolve to ensure the most accurate information is provided.
Additionally, a new rain gauge is planned for installation at the Met Office weather station in Loftus at Upton Hill, subject to agreement, and is expected to be completed by the end of the financial year.
RCBC/EA/NWL Update
The feasibility study for the Loftus Northumbrian Integrated Drainage Partnership (NIDP) is ongoing, with the optioning phase due for completion in spring 2025. Following this, costs and benefits will be finalised over the summer to determine project viability and potential eligibility for funding, leading to a bid for detailed design funding if appropriate.
NWL Operational Update
A non-return valve and manhole have been constructed at St Hilda’s Place to prevent flooding from the main combined sewer. The system has performed effectively during recent adverse weather events.
Further works scheduled for November and December include addressing the surcharging manhole at Arlington Street/Springhead Terrace. A water main diversion out of the sewer network is planned, which should further alleviate the issue.
Communications
I have requested that we ensure joint communications continue regularly throughout the year and at critical milestones to keep all interested parties and residents informed, up-to-date and engaged.
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Ends
Notes to Editors:
- The Loftus integrated study with the EA and NWL is still ongoing and will be finalised in spring 2025. This will hopefully establish solutions to the current wider flooding issues in the Loftus area.
- The Loftus Property Flood Resilience Project has been approved by the Environment Agency to protect 22 properties currently affected by flooding from Loftus Beck overtopping.
- The project focuses on the east of Loftus, particularly around East Crescent, St Hilda’s Place, and Arlington Street.
- The project is funded by the Environment Agency’s levy, with a total value of £362k.
- The works are being carried out under the Environment Agency’s Framework, using qualified manufacturers and installers with UK-wide experience in similar schemes.
- Watertight International Ltd will manufacture and install flood protection measures, including flood doors, barriers, flood air bricks, one-way non-return valves for private drainage systems, and minor building works (sealing and pointing brickwork).
- High-risk properties will also be equipped with puddle pumps to help residents manage water during extreme events.
- All necessary permissions and agreements have been approved, and the manufacturing of bespoke doors and gates is underway, with installation expected to start before Christmas 2024.
- Flooding in the area is complex, caused by surface water runoff from nearby farmland and rapid rises in Loftus Beck during heavy rainfall. This sometimes leads to out-of-bank flooding, with water flowing down Dam Street in an attempt to rejoin the Beck.