Kendal’s major flood defence scheme has reached a key milestone, with almost 70 per cent of the work now complete and most of the new flood gates in place, tested and operational.
The Environment Agency says the progress will strengthen protection for homes and businesses along the River Kent, although the scheme is not yet finished and flood risk cannot be removed entirely.
Defences and riverside improvements
In central Kendal, substantial sections of completed defence run from Dockray Hall to the Parish Church. Across the wider six-kilometre route through the town, the project combines flood walls, grass embankments and glass-panel sections designed to retain riverside views.
The work has also delivered more than five hectares of improved habitat and recreation space at Mintsfeet and Beezon Fields. A complete riverside walk is now open between Mintsfeet in the north and Helsington Mills in the south.
Further protection planned
Plans for the next stages are moving forward. The Stock Beck Catchment Drain scheme is currently at an early design stage, while the wider project is expected to better protect 1,950 homes and 2,257 businesses from the River Kent when fully completed.
The milestone comes ahead of Flood Action Week. The Environment Agency is urging people to prepare for an intensified, wetter winter after a historic summer drought.
“This winter, many homes and businesses in Kendal will be better protected than ever before thanks to the progress we’ve made, and our flood gates are tested, in place and ready to be used if needed.”
Richard Knight, the Environment Agency’s Cumbria and Lancashire area flood manager, said residents should remain flood aware. He also thanked the local community for its patience and support while the remaining works and future phases are planned.