Work has started on installing an automated pumping station to help manage and reduce the risk of surface water flooding to businesses within the industrial area adjacent to Caton Road in Lancaster.
The work is being funded by a £360,000 Government grant and is part of a project to protect businesses along this vital stretch, following the completion last year of the River Lune flood wall.
This next stage will see the excavation and construction of a pump chamber housing two automated pumps. Excess surface water in extreme storm events will be discharged through new outlet pipes into the River Lune.
To protect the pump itself, the control panel will be installed on an elevated plinth to give additional protection to the electronics and switch gear.
VBA, who completed the River Lune flood defence wall, will be undertaking the work, which will last for approximately 13 weeks.
Councillor Erica Lewis, cabinet member with responsibility for flood prevention, said: “It is exciting to see work begin on this project. This stretch of Caton Road is vital to our local economy, being home to businesses that employ thousands of people.
“We can't prevent all flooding but this scheme, combined with the flood wall which was completed just last year, will make a huge difference.
“My thanks go to the council’s engineering team, who have worked tirelessly to bring this scheme, and the vital protection it will bring to safeguard vital infrastructure and jobs, to fruition.”


Brief Encounter clock returns to Carnforth station after six years
Three Morecambe and Lunesdale schools to benefit from nursery places cash boost
New look for Morecambe music venue approved
Plans for 250 homes at former Carnforth quarry site thrown out by planners
Lancaster police to hold free bike marking event
Local priorities discussed on Police and Crime Commissioner’s visit to Morecambe
Paralympic hero unveils life‑changing rehab bike at Royal Lancaster Infirmary
Police warning after anti-social behaviour reports at Lancaster Castle and Priory
Friend's heartbreaking appeal for help with woman's dying wish to return home
Morecambe bar unveils striking new look
Discount shop in Lancaster shuts down
Former hotel and bar on Morecambe front is sold prior to auction
Morecambe Prom reopens after car pulling trailer hits lamppost
Crackdown on crime in night time economy launched
Lifeboat crew issue parking warning after weekend call out
Police issue quicksand warning after riverbank danger for school pupils in Lancaster
Lancaster animal shelter launches 'Big Build' fundraiser to help save charity
LISTEN: Morecambe "definitely submitting a bid" to become first UK Town of Culture
Heysham Port upgrade blamed for traffic chaos 'trapping residents in their homes'
LISTEN: Tourism champs hail Eden Project and Tour de France as huge for Morecambe Bay area

