Construction is continuing on a new major flood defence scheme in Exeter.

The project, which will reduce the risk of flooding to more than 3,200 homes and businesses in the city, is on schedule to be finished by the end of this year.

The scheme involves building two flood gates across Station Road on either side of the River Exe and the flood relief channel. When not in use the gates will sit behind the footpaths; when a flood is expected the gates will be closed thereby completing the flood defences and protecting the properties on each side of the river.

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To complete this work, it will be necessary to close Station Road from 09 April for nine weeks. This is necessary due to the size of the foundations required to support the gates.

Cllr Roger Croad said: "This is an essential element of the flood defence scheme and these flood gates will reduce flood risk to hundreds of homes and businesses in the city. Every effort will be made to minimise disruption during the closure of Station Road, but the long term benefits will outweigh the short term inconvenience."

Richard Cox, the scheme's project manager, said: "We'd like to thank commuters and others for their patience while we carry out these essential works. We regret that there will be inconvenience and we urge motorists to plan ahead and allow extra journey time."

(LM)