The Environment Agency has issued the latest update on construction of the Medmerry Managed Realignment Scheme.<\/p>\n
The last project update in November 2012 reported that about 80% of the work required to build the new inland flood banks had been completed. The Environment Agency explained that the ongoing wet weather was making it very difficult to build the new flood embankments. It was also explained that dry weather was needed to enable the remaining work to be completed in time for a March breach.<\/p>\n
However,\u00a0despite their best efforts including trying different construction techniques and equipment, the continuing wet weather has meant that the Environment Agency have been unable to make much progress on the embankments recently. The wet weather creates difficulties because it makes the ground very wet, which makes it very difficult for construction equipment to move around the site. In addition most of the material needed to build the embankments is being dug up from within the site. When this is saturated it cannot be used until it dries out.<\/p>\n
The Environment Agency has therefore, reluctantly, taken the decision to temporarily postpone construction of the embankments until the site is able to dry out. They expect this to be in the spring, and will keep providing updates regarding conditions on site.<\/p>\n
This delay to the programme means that they will not be able to achieve the original planned breach date in March 2013. It is more likely that this will now take place in the autumn 2013. The Environment Agency has said it will continue to maintain the existing sea defences until the new inland banks and all the other works are complete. Despite the difficult conditions on site, the intention is to continue working where possible. This includes construction of the new drainage outfalls and the archaeological investigations.<\/p>\n
Environmental update:<\/strong><\/p>\n Most of the protected species work will be unaffected by the change because much of it has already been completed. There will be a need to continue to monitor the site throughout the extended construction period to ensure there are no new impacts on protected species. The delay means the Environment Agency will need to revise their water vole strategy and are currently working on this in consultation with Natural England.<\/p>\n Update on June 2012 flooding on the Manhood Peninsula:<\/strong><\/p>\n Black and Vetch, appointed engineers (independent of the Medmerry managed realignment scheme) have published their final report later this month. For further information about this please visit the Environment Agency flooding review webpage<\/a>\u00a0or go to\u00a0http:\/\/www.environment-agency.gov.uk\/homeandleisure\/floods\/141205.aspx<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n RSPB Management Plan:<\/strong><\/p>\n The RSPB will take over the management of Medmerry access and habitats once the scheme is complete. The RSPB's management plan will start at that point. The Environment Agency continues to meet with the Medmerry Stakeholder Advisory Group (MStAG) and community representatives to report on all aspects of the scheme.<\/p>\n