Latest update of Kempsey Flood Scheme
The Kempsey flood alleviation scheme is proceding well. The construction company Messrs Galliford Try have benefitted from the recent, extended, dry weather and have been able to make good progress on building the pre-cast concrete tower for the pumps, the tunnel for the stream under the bund and the base for the penstock valve.
Work is about to start shortly in digging a fish refuge and re-instating the meander, the material from which will form part of the bund. Work has already started in preparing the ground for the construction of the bund. Once the concrete works are finished, then work can start on actually raising the bund. It is envisaged that the whole work will be completed by May 2012. So far, construction has taken place with the minimum of disruption to the residents who live nearby and the access roads of Church Street and Lyfs Lane have been swept regularly to keep them clear of mud from constructor's vehicles. Landscaping plans are currently under consideration and FLAG has contributed ideas into the proposals.
The report from the archaeological survey is awaited, particulalry regarding the discovery of large numbers of human skeletons under what is now the site access road, which runs adjacent to the boundary of the current graveyard.
Our thanks go to Mr Les Smith the site manager in keeping the village informed by regular newsletters posted on site and in organising a series of open days.
Approval of plans for Kempsey Flood Scheme
Malvern Hills District Council have approved the planning application for the scheme. Galliford Try are the building contractors and commenced work on 22 August. They have circulated an information letter to residents in the area of Lyfs Lane. A footpath closure order has been published with an effective date from 12 September.
The archaeological dig that has been undertaken is complete and interesting in itself regarding the finds. See the link here for the full story.
Images from the sod cutting ceremony on Friday 26 August
See details of the flood scheme here