Phase 1 is Underway

Update from the East Suffolk Drainage Board (ESIDB)

Work began in January on Phase 1, following the £11.1 million granted by the Environment Agency (EA), £3 million of which is from the Regional Flood and Coastal Committee. The remainder will be funded by the Trust, farmers and landowners.

This first stage is estimated to take 4 years, ending in 2027. Phase 1 focuses on improving the river defences on four flood cells along the Upper Estuary between Snape and Aldeburgh.

Click here for the ESIDB map showing the flood cells which will be protected by Phase 1.

The ESIDB have published an update outlining the start of the 4 year project. The first year mainly involves surveys and preparing for larger scale construction which will begin in 2024. The surveys at the start of the year studied overwintering birds, the next will focus on breeding birds. This will help to inform the detailed plans and to secure the necessary licences and permissions.

Now Phase 1 is in motion, we can focus on Phase 2, the Lower Estuary. This comprises a further four flood cells between Aldeburgh and Shingle Street. The local EA have offered just under £100,000 for the outline business case for the Lower Estuary. This is great news and demonstrates local EA approval for the project.

Click here for the Phase 2 map from the ESIDB showing the Lower Estuary flood cells.

Phase 2 is predicted to cost £32.3 million, just over 30% of which the ESIDB hopes to secure from central and local government funds. The remaining funds will need to be raised by the AOET, with your support.

Thank you to all who have helped and donated so far, we are delighted the work has begun. We look forward to protecting and enjoying the river and surrounding areas for many years to come.

If you would like to read the announcement from the ESIDB, please click here.