We are very pleased to update you on the breakthrough we have been able to achieve, working in partnership with the East Suffolk Water Management Board (ESWMB), the Alde & Ore Community Partnership (AOCP) and the Environment Agency (EA). This will see improvements made to the Alde and Ore Estuary river defences, starting in 2027.
Unlocking progress
Our agreement, to provide grant awards of up to £250,000 a year for five years towards a significant programme of works, has been met by a matching contribution of £250,000 a year from the ESWMB. The Environment Agency is currently contributing £10,000 per year. Under the terms of the agreement, works will start next year.
We have accelerated this work by providing 50% of the funding for a technical consultant who is employed by the East Suffolk Water Management Board. His role is, by the end of September, to produce a detailed report on the current status of our estuary’s defences and prepare a project plan based on the risk of flooding and the urgency of works required.
Our approach
The whole Estuary Plan remains our long-term goal. However, the community has been trying to deliver the plan for many years and has been met by constant delay, red tape and cost increases. In the shorter-term, this new agreement is a pragmatic way forward. We will be in a better position to obtain the approvals which are needed to get crucial work underway, and to repair on-going damage. This will help halt further decline and give us a better foundation for future works. For the Trust, following years of frustration, this agreement is a significant step towards positive action.
Community Support
A meeting of all those involved in our new agreement was hosted by our MP, Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, on Friday 10th July. A clear message is that we must all work together to improve defences and plan for the long term.
Plan Details
The ESWMB has just issued a newsletter which details the work towards a September improvement plan, and we will communicate with you as outcomes are known.