Dredging up the future: Quedgeley drain clearing will alleviate floods

Drainage ditches near a busy residential and retail area of Quedgeley  are being cleared by the county council to help prevent flooding.

Dredging work along Bristol Road and Carters Orchard is underway from 22nd February to 3^rd March, and will involve clearing drains of silt, overgrowth and any other debris, which will help increase their capacity.

The drainage system at Quedgeley was built over 30 years ago: since then, many new homes, businesses and shops have been developed in the area. In wet weather, this can place extra demand on watercourses, which do an important job containing water channelled from drains on the highway. The council is carrying out dredging work to clear watercourses and alleviate flooding.

Highways will remain open as usual, but drivers should be aware that maintenance vehicles will be on the roads. Work will start at Quedgeley Olympus retail park before continuing along Bristol Road to Farrier’s End and Saddlers Road.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood, said: “I am pleased that this work is being done to clear drainage. Watercourses play a vital role in reducing flood risk, especially in urban districts, and it is vital that they function correctly. We are taking preventative action now to protect properties in the area.”

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, county councillor for Quedgeley, said: “This vital work will benefit the community of Quedgeley. I am glad this is now underway to ensure drainage meets the needs of local residents and businesses.”

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk