Work on a £2.7 million flood protection scheme in Birmingham is now complete.

The project was officially opened today, 19 January. It will protect more than 200 homes and businesses in Selly Park South from flooding from the River Rea.

Features included building a 500-metre long embankment on the public open space next to Dogpool Lane bridge. This has created a flood storage area which will store water from the River Rea during times of heavy rainfall and then slowly release it back into the river when river water levels go down.

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In addition, a new flood wall and a higher river bank have been developed at the rear of 15 homes which back onto the river.

Mike Adams from the Environment Agency said: "We're pleased to deliver these flood protection measures for the people of Selly Park South. This community has experienced the terrible effects of flooding and the measures we've built here reduces future risk of flooding. We would like to thank local people for their patience and support throughout the building of this scheme."

Cllr Lisa Trickett said: "We've seen the devastating impact that flooding can have on communities, so I am delighted that these new measures are now in place. These will make a real difference by reducing the risk of flooding to hundreds of homes and businesses in Selly Park South."

(LM)