Northwich flood defences tested ahead of winter

The Environment Agency has carried out a large-scale training exercise in Northwich as part of a winter preparedness programme to make sure it is ready to respond to flood incidents.

The exercise, which took place between 4pm on Sunday 10 November and 3am on Monday 11 November, saw 100 metres of temporary defences erected and 14 flood gates closed in the town.

Temporary defences are made of lightweight aluminium and can be erected in around 45 minutes in the event of a flood alert or warning.

The floodgates are closed in minutes and create a seal to protect the town from floodwater.

The Environment Agency says that since its launch in June 2018, the £7 million flood alleviation scheme, which reduces the flood risk to around 400 homes and businesses throughout the town, has been tested and maintained on a regular basis.

Northwich flood defences put to the test ahead of winter.
Northwich flood defences put to the test ahead of winter.

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