Esh Construction has commenced work on the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme, which aims to reduce the risk of flooding in Whiston and protect homes, businesses and local roads.
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council is working in partnership with the Environment Agency and appointed Esh’s civil engineering division to deliver the scheme. Most recently, Whiston experienced significant floods in October 2023, with high water levels exacerbated by surface water runoff and pressure on existing drainage infrastructure. Flooding has previously impacted homes, businesses and the local road network, including Howarth Road and Long Lane.
The project will provide a long-term reduction in flood risk by improving how water moves through Whiston and by increasing the capacity of the drainage system to deal with periods of heavy rainfall.
Michael Sherrard, Construction Manager at Esh, said: “We're looking forward to starting work on the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme and working alongside Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and the Environment Agency to deliver this important investment for the community.
"The scheme has been carefully developed to reduce flood risk through a combination of drainage improvements, increased watercourse capacity and new flood storage infrastructure. Once complete, it will help provide greater protection for homes, businesses and local roads during periods of heavy rainfall.”
The scheme includes improvements to sections of the watercourse that currently flow through culverts beneath roads, as well as the creation of a new flood storage area on adjacent land. During heavy rain, excess water will be temporarily stored within this area and then released at a controlled rate once water levels have reduced.
Work will take place at several locations across Whiston, including:
• Worrygoose Lane from Cow Rakes Lane to Greystones Road
• Little Common Lane/Royds Moor Hill
• Moorhouse Lane
