Work is set to commence on the Portadown Flood Alleviation Scheme, with site clearance and advanced works scheduled to begin shortly. The initiative aims to enhance flood protection for over 380 homes and businesses across 21 locations in the Portadown area, addressing the increasing risk of river flooding exacerbated by climate change.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) announced that initial activities will include service diversion works alongside the removal of trees and vegetation. This clearance is strategically timed to precede the bird nesting season, ensuring compliance with environmental guidelines. The department emphasized the importance of these preparatory actions as vital steps toward the successful implementation of the £60 million scheme.
Environmental Considerations and Community Engagement
The DfI stated that expert advice, including an arboricultural impact assessment, has informed the design changes to minimize tree removal. A spokesperson for the department noted, “The Department fully values the environment and seeks to nurture and develop it as part of our work.”
To mitigate the impact of tree removal, areas cleared for the works will be replanted with similar species whenever possible. In cases where replanting in the original location is not feasible, compensatory planting will take place in suitable areas, contingent upon landowner agreement. The department has already planted 1,200 trees in the Portadown area and continues to collaborate with stakeholders to explore further opportunities for environmental restoration.
Historical Context and Future Protection
Portadown has a history of significant flooding events, with notable occurrences recorded in 1986, 1987, 2009, 2011, 2014, 2015/16, and most recently in 2023. The frequency and severity of these floods are expected to escalate as climate change effects intensify. For instance, in October 2011, substantial out-of-bank flooding led to damage to properties and infrastructure. Subsequent floods in 2014 and 2015 also resulted in significant harm to residential neighborhoods and businesses.
The proposed flood alleviation scheme is designed to protect against a 1% Annual Exceedance Probability flood, which refers to a flood event that has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. This design standard accounts for the anticipated impacts of climate change, ensuring that Portadown is better prepared for future flooding challenges.
As work progresses, community engagement and environmental stewardship remain central to the DfI’s approach, balancing infrastructural needs with ecological responsibilities.
