Title: Bewdley flood defences : the invisible defences
Author: Environment Agency
Document Type: Monograph
Annotation: EA additional title info: creating a better place
Abstract:
Strategically placed on an ancient river crossing, Bewdley has a rich and colourful history. The River Severn has played a major role in the development of the town, which was an important focus for river trade. By the 17th century, Bewdley had become an important inland port with prosperous manufacturing industries, most notably pewter. The town centre and neighbouring Wribbenhall lie on land that gently rises on either side of the river. The two communities are joined by the Grade 1 listed bridge across the River Severn which was built in 1801 by Thomas Telford. Over the centuries, development has spread along the river frontage into the low-lying floodplain. This floodplain is the natural overflow area for the river in times of high flows, and buildings on this land are at constant risk of flooding. The areas of Bewdley most severely hit by flooding are Severnside North and Severnside South around the bridge crossing on the western side of the river and Wribbenhall and Beale’s Corner to the east of the river. The increasing frequency of flooding in more recent times, and in particular the severe floods in November 2000, highlighted the need to urgently look again at the possibilities for alleviating flooding in the town. Because of the unsuitability of permanent defences, it became apparent that an innovative solution would be needed.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Publication Date: [after 2004]
Publication Place: Solihull
Subject Keywords: Flood management policies; Flood defence structures; Flood control; Rivers; History
Geographic Keywords: Bewdley; Midlands (England); Severn
Extent: 11
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:375
Total file downloads: 334
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