Getting winter ready: Northwich defences put to the test

A large-scale exercise will put the Environment Agency’s £7m Northwich Flood Risk Management Scheme through its paces this weekend (11-12 October). The scheme protects around 400 homes and businesses.

The annual training exercise forms part of the Environment Agency’s winter preparedness programme, designed to ensure teams are ready to respond quickly and effectively to flooding incidents across the town.

Taking place between 5pm on Sunday 11 October and 5am on Monday 12 October, the exercise will involve erecting 69 metres of temporary defences, and the closure of 12 floodgates across Northwich.

The Environment Agency, Cheshire West and Chester Council and United Utilities will also be rehearsing joint over-pumping arrangements whereby heavy-duty pumps are used to manage surface water while the temporary defences and flood gates are in operation.

Activity will begin with floodgates being closed and installation of temporary flood barriers at Waitrose and Baron’s Quay. Temporary flood barriers will also be installed at Dane Bridge on London Road, which will be closed to traffic. An alternative route will be signposted for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. 

The temporary barriers, constructed from lightweight aluminium, are typically installed ahead of flood alerts and warnings being issued. At Dane Bridge, a double layer of barriers forms a channel that keeps the River Dane contained, stopping water from escaping towards London Road or Watling Street. The floodgates, meanwhile, can be shut rapidly to form a protective seal against rising floodwater.

Stock photo of previous deployment of Northwich temporary flood defences. Environment Agency.

The exercise gives the Environment Agency the chance to carry out routine checks and maintenance on the defences, as well as rehearsing response procedures alongside partner organisations.