Salisbury River Park Lead admits 'There is little we can do'

That's the message from the Environment Agency after the recent flooding in Salisbury. 

The recent heavy rains and flooding impacted homes on Ashley Road at the weekend, and it could easily happen again as the flood defence work in that area is not due to be completed until March or April this year. 

Residents on Ashley Road have expressed their concern that properties could be damaged again if additional heavy rainfall and high river levels continue.

Some residents have already moved out and are trying to deal with the impact. 

Flooded area (Image: Newsquest)

Andy Wallis, Project Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “There is little we can do to stop the water getting to these properties if this event was to occur again.

“We have had a huge amount of rain and that part of the river park defences has not yet been finished.”

Read more: 'No one has said sorry' Flooding victims frustrated at Ashley Road floods

The construction on the Salisbury River Park began in 2022 with the aim of reducing flood risk to more than 350 homes and businesses in Salisbury.

The £27 million scheme also created  2 hectares of enhanced riverside habitat with large areas of high quality public open space. It would also benefit walkers and cyclists. 

Plan showing flood defences (Image: Wiltshire Council)

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Andy Wallis said: “I fully understand how residents feel. I spoke to some residents at the weekend. Some were pragmatic, some were frustrated. I fully get it. My heart goes out to those affected."

"But we will review whether there is more that could be done to reduce the amount of water going into the properties through some temporary localised works at the properties themselves."

The much-needed river defence work was planned for the last part of the project and cannot be started until the area has dried out substantially until then, residents in the area will remain at risk. 

Andy Wallis added: “Once the flood defences are completed, these properties won’t be affected. I can categorically confirm that."