A NEW flood defence scheme is being developed in Poole town centre, the Old Town and surrounding areas to reduce the flood risk to properties and infrastructure.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council wants to hear from residents to see how they can minimise disruption once construction begins.

The scheme, which was awarded £12.4 million Grant in Aid funding from the Environment Agency in 2021, will address the area adjacent to Back Water Channel.

A BCP spokesperson said the council recognises construction activities on the project has the potential to cause some disruption and it wants local people, organisations and businesses in Poole to have their say, so that it can work to minimise the impact.

Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy at BCP Council, said: “This is the last remaining undefended waterfront in Poole town centre.

“While some properties here have flood resilience built in, such as raised thresholds to prevent flooding, others are critically low and are in a state of disrepair.

“Over the last 25 years it was anticipated that ongoing regeneration would deliver full flood protection. However, recent developments have only provided flood defences along discrete lengths.

“This incomplete defence leaves the whole area vulnerable to tidal flooding which is expected to increase in frequency and severity with climate change.

“Extensive efforts are needed to raise land levels and close the gaps in the flood defence line to ensure that the local community in Poole Old Town is safeguarded effectively.

“We are committed to actively seeking ways to minimise the construction impacts on the local community and are encouraging people to tell us how we can help mitigate these during our planning phase.”

The survey is open now for residents to have their say. The survey will close on September 30 at 11.59pm.

A drop-in event is taking place on September 5 from 10am to 4.30pm at Sea Scouts Hall (Edith Lyle Hall), West Quay Road, Poole, BH15 1JF.

To book your ticket, and for more information, click here.

There is also an online presentation and Q&A session on September 11 from 6.45pm to 8.00pm. To book your free ticket, click here.