Work set to start on new city flood defences

The new defences will protect properties and infrastructure on the left bank of the River Derwent

Construction work is set to start on the second phase of a major flood defence scheme for Derby.

A new flood wall and floodgates are set to be constructed as part of the Derby Riverside scheme, which aims to protect properties along the east bank of the River Derwent from Causey Bridge to Derwent Bridge.

Workers are also set to demolish riverside office blocks in Stuart Street to create a new riverside green area which Derby City Council says will create more space for flood water to pass through the city in "a controlled corridor".

Preparatory work has already started on the site, with contractors set to start demolition and construction in June, the authority said.

Offices in Stuart Street are set to be demolished to create a green space along the river bank

A number of trees will be chopped down along the route, which the council says is necessary to allow the defences to be built and to make sure there are no obstructions in the riverside park which is designed to let flood water flow away.

The Derby Riverside scheme aims to protect Breadsall, Darley Abbey Mills Bridge, the area between North Riverside and Meadow Lane, and sites at Derby Junction Railway Bridge, Pride Park, Ambaston and Shardlow from floods.

It is part of the wider three-phase Our City Our River project, which aims to protect an area between Alfreton Road Industrial Estate and Alvaston Park.

The river burst its banks in 2023 and caused widespread flooding along the eastern bank of the Derwent following Storm Babet.

Councillor Carmel Swan, cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: "These works are crucial as we continue to future proof the city against extreme weather and unlock the potential for regeneration along the river.

"We can now look forward to seeing work begin on site in the near future."