THE Environment Agency (EA) has begun the construction phase of a 39-metre glass flood defence wall in Kendal.

The wall adjacent to Stramongate Bridge on the entrance to Gooseholme Park is the first location where the glass panels will be delivered.

It marks the first phase of a wider project to build 6km of flood walls and embankments.

Construction to deliver the other glass panelled sections at Waterside and Aynam Road will start in this summer.

The agency is using Pilkington Glass, of the NSG Group, and chemicals and materials manufacturer Kuraray to provide the parts for the wall.

The glass wall was chosen, says the EA, to both protect homes and businesses from flooding without spoiling the town's historic beauty and retaining riverside views. 

Once complete Pilkington Glass says that the wall will reduce the risk of flooding for over 1,480 homes and 1,100 local businesses. This will be a key part of the EA's strategy to prevent the extent of the damage seen in Storm Desmond from happening again in the future. 

The laminated design was originally created to withstand severe hurricanes in the United States. The wall is made up of alternating layers of glass and interlayer to create a 35mm laminate, with toughened glass as the outer pane and 12mm glass as the middle pane. 

Tom McCormick, flood risk management scheme advisor for the EA, said: "It can’t be understated how far all parties have gone to ensure that this project protects those vulnerable to flooding, while putting the community first.

READ MORE: Plan for flood defence work at Kendal's Gooseholme Park criticised

“A string of engagement talks, alongside a stringent planning process, has made sure that all community concerns have been taken into account. It’s been a pleasure to collaborate with conscientious partners as we work to safeguard Kendal, whilst ensuring the beauty of the town and its historic scenery are preserved.”

Jonathan Cornthwaite, from Kendal Town Council, said: “The Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme will and already is proving beneficial for the local community. The safety of our residents is of the utmost importance to us, so the flood wall protecting the area’s most vulnerable whilst preserving the scenic beauty of our town is a welcome addition to Kendal’s riverbanks. 

"And this is just the start – we’re looking forward to broadening protection further in the summer of this year with the next phase of this important community project."