Work completes on key part of flood defence scheme

Derby City Council has announced that construction work has finished on a vital part of the city’s new flood defence network.

According to the council, Mill Fleam Pumping Station, on Bass’s Recreation Ground, will provide a much higher level of protection to shops and businesses in the city centre.

During a flood event it will pump water from Markeaton Brook, which runs through a culvert under the city, into the River Derwent.

This will prevent floodwaters backing up under the city and escaping through drains.

The completion of the pumping station marks the end of the Munio Projects, part of the Our City, Our River (OCOR) scheme to enhance Derby’s flood defences and pave the way for regeneration.

Taken from the Latin word meaning to strengthen or protect, this key phase of flood defence work covers the west bank of the Derwent from Darley Abbey to Alvaston Park.

Brand new flood walls, flood gates and the pumping station have been combined with improved landscaping to provide the city centre with a flood defence system that protects the city’s heritage.

Councillor Carmel Swan, the city council’s cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: “This pumping station is just one part of a more comprehensive raft of defences that have already proven their worth in recent flood events, and offer protection for people’s homes, businesses and livelihoods.

“This project shows our dedication to shielding our city from climate change’s effects and our commitment to future-proofing our city.

“As we move to the next phase, the wider OCOR scheme will bring fresh business opportunities, boost our resilience against environmental challenges, and continue to enrich our area’s biodiversity.

“The River Derwent, Derby’s priceless treasure, has been overlooked for far too long.

“However, the OCOR programme has sparked a renewed relationship with this remarkable natural feature, invigorating areas along its banks.

“This isn’t just a promising future; it’s an exhilarating journey we are embarking on, one underpinned by dedication and trust, and I’m excited to lead the way.”

Plans for the next stage of OCOR involve a series of transformative changes at Derby Riverside, which aim to deliver further flood defences, an urban community and further sustainable development opportunities.