Final phase of flood alleviation scheme starts

Councillor Geoff Jung (second left) said it was "crucial" to protect vulnerable properties

Work has started on the final phase of a £6m flood alleviation scheme in Devon, a council says.

East Devon District Council said homes in the village of Feniton flooded on average every two to three years, with regular incidents dating back to the 1970s.

The new scheme aimed to minimise flood risks for up to 100 homes, officials said.

They added that work would take about a year to complete and would see a 1050mm diameter pipe divert water through the village to increase the capacity of an existing watercourse.

'Resilient solution'

Work was to take place in and around the village near Honiton, surrounding fields, playpark, Warwick Close, Wells Avenue through to the southern part of the village, finishing in outfall on the corner of Ottery Road and Green Lane, project managers said.

Councillor Geoff Jung said: "Protecting vulnerable properties from the threat of flooding is crucial.

"Whilst there might be some inconvenience for local people, with diversions and road closures, the overall benefits will outweigh these in the long term and we will ensure a resilient flooding solution for the people of Feniton is delivered."