Local News · Salisbury
Fallen trees to be cleared from River Avon to reduce Salisbury flood risk
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Work is set to begin on removing fallen trees from the River Avon near the Five Rivers Leisure Centre to improve water flow and prevent potential flooding.
Fallen trees and debris obstructing the River Avon near the Five Rivers Leisure Centre in Salisbury are to be removed to reduce the risk of winter flooding. The Environment Agency identified six specific locations along the stretch of river bordering the centre where fallen willow trees and stems have created blockages.
These obstructions have raised concerns regarding the river's capacity during periods of high flow. To mitigate this risk, Salisbury City Council submitted an application in September to clear the identified areas, a proposal that has since received no objections from Wiltshire Council.
Documents submitted to the local authority illustrate the current state of the river, showing significant trunks and branches extending into the water or lying along the riverbanks. The clearing operation will focus specifically on the removal of these fallen obstacles, rather than the wholesale removal of the willow trees that line this part of the Avon.
Because the work is situated within a conservation area, it was subject to a formal notification process with the local planning authority. Wiltshire Council confirmed that the trees are not protected by a Tree Preservation Order, allowing the works to proceed. Officials have stipulated that the work must be completed within the next two years and must adhere to British Standard recommendations for tree management, with strict attention given to ensuring wildlife protections remain in place throughout the operation.
Source: Wiltshire Times · View original