The next steps in protecting Kendal from future floods has been laid out by the Environment Agency following recent storm activity.
Work is set to start at a new location in the town centre between Melrose Place and Gooseholme Bridge.
This will include construction of a new flood defence along the riverside which forms part of the New Road Common - the flood defence will include reinforced walls, which will be clad in locally sourced natural stone.
Kendal comes scarily close to flooding during Storm Isha | The Westmorland Gazette
The recent arrival of Storm Isha and Storm Jocelyn prompted further concerns about the preventative work being doing to deal with increased river levels.
Environment Agency project manager for the Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme Alex Cowin said: "Further construction works are underway next to Melrose Place in Kendal to better protect local homes and businesses from the devastating effects of flooding.
“We understand the balance between ensuring the town is protected from the devastation of flooding while also maintaining public facilities and access to nature which is why the improved design and landscape plans were shaped by feedback from the community."
Mr Cowin added that the 'importance of the character and heritage' of the town centre played a key role in defining the latest proposals.
“The Kendal Scheme is part of our work to adapt to our changing climate, which is leading to heavier and more intense rainfall, which increase flood risk," he said.
"We appreciate that the works being undertaken will impact on local people and we will do our very best to keep this to a minimum - we will continue to keep the local community updated as the works progress."
The work is part of the Government funded, multi-million-pound Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme which, the EA says, will better protect over 1,400 homes and 1,100 businesses along the catchment when completed.
Once contractors VolkerStevin begins construction, access to the new Gooseholme Bridge will remain open to the public.
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The proposed 15-metre-long flood wall is due to be completed in March 2024 and will be complimented by the reseeding of grass sections surrounding it.
A meeting with residents has been arranged to discuss the finished details of the railings.
More information on the Kendal Flood Scheme can be found on the flood hub.
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