River Avon to be drained through Salisbury's Central Car Park
It's part of 'main construction works' on the River Park project
The River Avon through Central Car Park in Salisbury is to be 'dewatered' and excavation works have started both there and at Fisherton Recreation Ground - to kick off the River Park project proper.
This is the first part of the 'main construction' for the £27 million scheme, which is aimed at reducing flood risks for Salisbury and improving our access to outdoor spaces along the waterway.
The river will need to be drained to allow for work within the river channel - fish and water voles living there have already been safely captured and moved to another part of the Avon.
Other work in the initial stages will include a temporary play park put into the Ashley Road green and foundation works will begin there for a new flood defence wall.
The play area will be replaced with new, permanent equipment later in the project, with a final design to be revealed in the Autumn.
The allotment shop at the Fisherton Recreation Ground is to be relocated to the other side of the site, and the existing entrance gate widened.
Eventually, the allotment shop space will be used to provide a kiosk and fully accessible toilets, including baby change and a 'changing places' facility with hoist and room for a carer.
Ron Curtis, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at The Environment Agency said:
“The start of construction is a really important milestone for the Salisbury River Park. This is the first step in providing better flood protection for the city. We know the devastating impact that flooding can have, which is why protecting people and communities is our top priority. Working with our partners we’re really excited about the added benefits this scheme will bring for people and wildlife in Salisbury.”
Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste, Street Scene and Flooding, Wiltshire Council, said:
“It’s great news that works have started on this exciting project. Creating sustainable environments is a priority within Wiltshire Council’s Business Plan and the Salisbury River Park project fully embraces the delivery of this aim. I’m really excited to see this project take shape and provide a lasting legacy for future generations.”
Salisbury City Council and the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership are also stakeholders in the project.
It's already been confirmed that for every tree removed as part of the River Park project, six will be planted in its place.
It's expected the main construction works will be completed by Spring 2024.