THE two-year construction project to protect Wisbech from flooding has been completed more than a month ahead of schedule.

THE two-year construction project to protect Wisbech from flooding has been completed more than a month ahead of schedule.

The town’s North Brink was reopened on Tuesday, 27 July, following completion of the Environment Agency flood defence scheme. More than 11,700 homes and businesses in the town, as well as the surrounding countryside, will be safeguarded as a result.

Project manager Andrew Usborne praised the support received from people in the town and stated they had played their part in the jobs speedy completion.

He said: “The Environment Agency and members of the project team would like to thank the residents of Wisbech for their patience over the last two years while we have worked in the town to improve the defences.

“We have been made very welcome and have felt part of the community. We’re sorry to be leaving but know we have improved the quality of life for people living and working in Wisbech by helping to safeguard it against the increased risk of flooding that climate change will bring.”

Further works will now take place in the Port Area where a floodgate is being installed. This is expected to be completed by the end of August 2010 and Nene Parade will be closed during the works. Diversion routes have been set-up via Lynn Road and Mount Pleasant Road.