Flood risk reduced for Severn Stoke ahead of winter months

A £5 million flood defence scheme in Severn Stoke has been completed ahead of schedule, reducing flood risk for homes, businesses and infrastructure ahead of winter. The project was delivered in partnership by the Environment Agency and Worcestershire County Council, with contractors Alun Griffiths Construction Ltd. Key features include a new flood bank west of the village, improved drainage for surface water management, and a raised section of the A38 road crossing the flood bank.

Additional landscaping, including tree planting, habitat creation and fencing, will be completed over the coming months. The scheme is part of a broader government investment of at least £10.5 billion into flood defences nationwide, benefiting nearly 900,000 properties by 2036. The Environment Agency funded approximately £5 million of the delivery costs, with Worcestershire County Council contributing £250,000.

Residents in Severn Stoke have experienced significant flooding in recent winters, with 18 properties, the local church, the local pub and the A38 road all affected during severe flood events. The new scheme aims to provide added reassurance and confidence as flood risk typically increases during the winter months. The operational status of the defences comes as the government highlights its ongoing commitment to reducing flood risk across the country.

The government’s flood defence programme also supports economic growth by creating jobs, protecting properties from billions of pounds in potential damage, and enabling new housing and business development. The Severn Stoke scheme is one of many projects under this initiative, designed to safeguard communities and critical infrastructure from flooding.