Plans for new tidal barrier in Lowestoft move step forward
The 40 metre barrier would be one of the first examples of its kind in the UK
Last updated 17th Mar 2023
A 40-metre tidal barrier with gates that close to prevent flooding is planned for Lowestoft.
A unanimous vote by councillors on Wednesday approved asking government to grant the council powers to build the barrier.
It would run across the channel entrance to Lake Lothing on the seaward side of the Bascule Bridge in Lowestoft, and represent the only one of its kind built in a working channel without diversion.
Cllr David Ritchie, cabinet member for planning and coastal management, said: “We are trying to do something now to better protect homes and businesses in the future.”
According to the report brought before councillors, there are 221 residential and 373 commercial properties at risk of tidal flooding in Lowestoft, not to mention areas earmarked for future development.
The gates would reach deep under the water and be closed when there is a tidal surge.
Wednesday’s vote was for preparing a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO), which will be handed to the secretary of state for the environment, food and rural affairs and ask for powers to build the barrier. TWAOs usually take around five years to implement.
This will represent the final phase in Lowestoft’s flood risk management project – the earlier stages being the building of sea walls and removable flood barriers. These will be finished in Autumn this year.
Heavy rainfall flooded 33 homes in Aldwyck Way and Velda Close in 2015, while a 2013 tidal surge caused flooding for 158 residential and 233 business properties in Lowestoft and Oulton Broad.
Key transportation links such as the railway and A12 were also plunged underwater in 2013, which impacted the flood response, recovery and clean up.