Partners in the Hythe Task Force continue to make steady progress on the programme of measures designed to reduce flood risk and improve long term resilience for the Hythe and surrounding areas.
A full CCTV survey of the drainage network running between Distillery Pond, Haven Road and the Smiths Field allotments has been completed and the results – expected shortly – will give engineers a much clearer understanding of the complex connectivity, sizing and condition of the system. This will help identify where any maintenance or improvements may be needed to ensure the network operates as effectively as possible during heavy rainfall.
Procurement of new pond level controls has experienced some delays; however, this has created an opportunity to investigate whether water levels could be varied across a wider range than originally planned. This additional flexibility could provide significantly more flood storage capacity.
Supporting environmental studies are also underway. These will help assess how the changes may affect the ecology of the pond and identify opportunities for delivering wider benefits, including enhanced biodiversity and improved water quality beyond the original scope.
Work to deliver nature-based flood management measures in Bourne Valley –including leaky dams and other interventions that slow water flow – remains on schedule for installation in autumn 2026. Ecological assessments of the area are ongoing to ensure the scheme supports local wildlife and natural habitats.
A small amount of additional funding has also been secured to install insect posts in the valley. These will include links to the new project website, offering background information and regular updates. Both the posts and the website are expected to be launched by May 2026.
Cllr David King, Chairman of the Hythe Task Force, said: “We continue to make progress, each step bringing us closer to a flood resilient Hythe. The detailed investigations now completed, and the further opportunities emerging around greater water storage and environmental gains, show the real value of taking the time to get this right. I am grateful to our partners and all those contributing to this important work. Together, we are shaping solutions that combine sound engineering with improved biodiversity, to give residents and businesses greater confidence for the future.”
The Task Force will continue to meet regularly to oversee progress and coordinate delivery across all partners. Further updates will be shared with the community as results from the drainage survey and environmental studies become available.