Major flood defence upgrade completed at Keyhaven ahead of winter

The Environment Agency has replaced the Avon Water Outfall at Keyhaven Harbour in Hampshire, better protecting around 40 properties from flooding ahead of winter. 

This announcement coincides with this year’s Flood Action Week, starting 12 October, which urges people to check their flood risk, draft a flood plan, and sign up for flood warnings.  

The outfall forms a barrier between the Solent and Avon Water and is a key part of the flood defence network. However, the outfall had significantly corroded, and the new outfall will prevent water in the River Avon from backing up during periods of high tide and flooding properties upstream. 

Because much of the structure is submerged for long periods, work depended heavily on tides with specialist divers carrying out detailed underwater inspections. 

The new structure uses more durable materials than the original and will withstand the coastal environment, reduce future maintenance and extend the structure’s working life.

The new flood gates being lifted into position using a crane

Artur Podsiadly, Environment Agency project manager, said: 

As we promote Flood Action Week, I am pleased to be able to share the news we’ve completed these vital upgrades ahead of winter, when tidal locking can contribute to flooding problems at Keyhaven.  

It is important to remember though that extreme weather is becoming more common due to climate change, and we can’t stop all flooding. That’s why we are urging everyone to check their flood risk online and if advisable, draft a flood plan and sign up for free flood warnings.

The announcement coincides with this year's Flood Action Week, starting 12 October

Following a both wet winter and a historic summer drought - the driest July in nearly two centuries - the nation is now bracing for an intensified, wetter winter. The Environment Agency remains ready to respond to both ongoing drought conditions and any winter flooding incidents.