‘Leaky dams’ to tackle Harlow flooding issues

‘Leaky dams’ are to be created in Parndon and Risden Woods to help tackle flooding issues for Harlow residents.

Essex County Council’s Flooding Team has come up with this way to reduce the risk of surface water flooding. This is the second time leaky dams have been used to tackle flooding issues in Essex following a successful pilot in Thaxted this year.

The work will see Suffolk Punch heavy horses transporting and positioning woody debris across water channels to help slow down water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. An earth bund will also be built on Kingsmoor Playing Field to help capture and store floodwater.

The project is being led by the Flood and Water Management team at Essex County Council, working in partnership with Place Services, Jacobs, Harlow District Council and the Environment Agency.

Simon Walsh, Essex County Council cabinet member for environment and waste, said: “Leaky dams are a great way of reducing the environmental impact on ancient woodland by using local resources and horse power – literally.

“We currently have a number of projects planned across Harlow to help residents who live in areas susceptible to flooding.

“Our Flooding Team is working with local partners to ensure this work will be long-lasting and life-changing for local residents.”

Danny Purton, Harlow COuncil’s portfolio holder for environment, said: “We are working together with Essex County Council and the Environment Agency on a number of projects to ensure residents’ homes and local open spaces are protected from flooding.

“I am pleased to see that work has now started to carry out this essential work. I know that flooding is a concern for residents living in some areas and that the town’s open spaces are much-loved. Therefore it is important that as many people as possible attend local events to find out more about the work taking place which will both protect homes and the environment for years to come.”