The Environment Agency (EA) has delivered a flood alleviation scheme in Grantham, Lincolnshire.

The improvement works were carried out at Witham Brook due to the result of summer storms in 2015.

Four properties and the Witham Brook Park Industrial Estate were flooded when water levels in the brook rose substantially following heavy rain.

The culvert under the industrial estate became blocked by debris and rubbish, causing the water to back up and spill over its banks.

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The Witham First Internal Drainage Board (IDB), on behalf of the EA, has now re-shaped the banks to make the channel wider, allowing it to better cope with heavy rain and sudden changes in water level.

In addition, the brook has been connected to the nearby floodplain so extra water will spill into it first and be less likely to affect properties.

Jeremy Brown, Asset Performance Advisor, said: "The work we've carried out will help reduce – but not completely remove – the risk of flooding, as the nearby properties are located within a natural floodplain."

Further improvements to the brook are being explored by South Kesteven District Council, Witham First IDB, Anglian Water and the Environment Agency.

(LM/JP)