�Summary The properties along Winford Brook, in Chew Magna are particularly prone to flooding. Targeted action has been taken to protect the most vulnerable homes against future flooding.

Flood Protection in Chew Magna

�About the project The geography and conservation status of Chew Magna meant that a normal flood protection scheme wasn’t possible. Chew Magna Parish Council, the Environment Agency and Bath & North East Somerset Council joined forces to risk assess and protect the properties most at risk. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) provided grant funding. The Winford Brook project has been such a success that DEFRA has awarded further funding to extend the project to the rest of Chew Magna. Once complete in 2011, over 50 properties will have bespoke flood protection.

�Benefits As well as protecting the most at risk properties, the project has also increased awareness within the community about the flood risk and encouraged them to work together to protect themselves through their Parish Flood Warden Scheme. This project is an example of the benefits of improved flood water management, which is the aim of the Flood and Water Management Act introduced in April 2010. The Act intends to improve local management through actions such as improving flood risk maps, developing a plan for management of flood and surface water and to require the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems.

�Next Steps The second phase of the project will involve performing a flood risk assessment for the whole of Chew Magna and installing the appropriate flood protection for those most at risk. Flood protection will also be integrated into the existing Parish Flood Warden Scheme. For more information please contact Richard Look Email: Richard_look@bathnes.gov.uk Tel: 01225 477614 Chew Magna Parish Council www.chewmagnapc.co.uk

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