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First of three new gates installed at Leigh Flood Storage Area near Sevenoaks to reduce risk of flooding from River Medway to homes in Tonbridge and Hildenborough

16:02, 20 October 2024

A scheme to increase the capacity of a flood storage area by 25% has taken a step forward.

A new gate has been delivered at the Leigh Flood Storage Area near Sevenoaks and lifted into place by a 300-ton crane.

The new gate being lifted into position by crane at the Leigh Storage Area
The new gate being lifted into position by crane at the Leigh Storage Area

The new gate is the first of three, designed to reduce the risk of flooding from the River Medway to 1,200 homes and businesses in Tonbridge and Hildenborough.

It works by storing peak-flood flows in the storage area to minimise downstream flow, releasing the water gradually over time.

Each gate weighs around 12.5 tonnes – the equivalent to a single-decker bus.

By replacing the gates and raising sections of the embankment, the Flood Storage Area will be able to store approximately 25% more water than it does now; in total, over 7m cubic metres of flood water, that will help to better protect 200 additional homes from flooding.

It is expected that the scheme will be completed by the end of 2025.

Lowering the 12.5-ton gate into position was a delicate process at the Leigh Storage Area
Lowering the 12.5-ton gate into position was a delicate process at the Leigh Storage Area
The new gate fixed into position with its lifting arms attached at the Leigh Storage Area
The new gate fixed into position with its lifting arms attached at the Leigh Storage Area

Sally Harvey, the Environment Agency’s deputy director for Kent, said: “The installation of the new gate is a huge achievement and a great step forward.

“People can be assured that the flood storage area will remain operational throughout the project, continuing to protect people, homes and businesses.”

Cllr Matt Boughton, Leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council said: “The completion of this major milestone is a huge achievement.

“It takes us a step closer to providing even greater protection from the risk of flooding to local homes and businesses which can have a devastating impact.”

The project is being funded by a government Flood Defence Grant, with contributions from Tonbridge and Malling council, Kent County Council and the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

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