14/11/2005 - As the first phase comes to an end, the Environment Agency is set to start the second stage of work to improve flood protection in Rye, East Sussex.

The Environment Agency will start the final phase of the River Rother Tidal Walls Scheme in the first week of December. Once complete, it will provide improved protection to over 650 houses and businesses and the A259 in Rye from flooding.

This £3.5 million phase will go along the west bank of the River Rother. It will start at Strand Quay and will end at Rye Harbour, where it will link with the Pett Level Coastal Sea Defence Scheme. This phase includes the construction of a 3400 metre long earth embankment, a 1000 metre long floodwall and 150 metres of brushwood mattress. This is a century old practice where natural materials are used to help prevent the riverbank from erosion.

Throughout the scheme the Environment Agency has taken the local environment into consideration. Materials have been chosen that reflect the character of Rye and are in keeping with existing buildings. It has also made special considerations to avoid damaging the nationally scarce salt marsh plants on and around Rye’s flood embankments, the local wading bird and wildfowl population and the legally protected species, such as the slow worm, common lizard and grass snake that are all present in the area. The Environment Agency will continue these considerations in its forthcoming work.

Clive Older, Environment Agency Flood Risk Manager for Kent, said: "We’re delighted with the work already completed and pleased to be in the final phase of the scheme that will provide improved flood protection to Rye.

"Our climate is changing and scientists are predicting sea level rises so this work is essential to improve the defences and ensure that the town has better protection from flooding in the future."

"During the first phase of the scheme we have worked closely with the residents affected by our work to take their views and concerns into account. We do recognise that work on this scale can cause some disruption so we would like to thank the residents for their help, support and comments so far. We will continue to do our best to minimise any disturbance".

The Environment Agency expects the River Rother Tidal Walls Scheme to be finished in March 2007.

The Environment Agency has employed Jackson Civil Engineering to carry out the construction of the River Rother Tidal Walls Scheme.
The £2.9 million phase of the scheme goes from Bridge Point, just north of the Strand Quay to Scots Float Sluice. It includes the construction of a 1200 metre long earth embankment, a 1000 metre long brick faced concrete floodwall and 350 metres of brushwood mattress.
The farmers market will continue to be held at Strand Quay in December. An alternative location will then be found and the Environment Agency will signpost this location at Strand Quay.