Flood-prevent system to be built in city park
Laurence TaylorA new drainage system will be built in a city park to help prevent flooding.
Newcastle City Council approved installation of a basin system and repairs of drainage pipes in the north-west of Exhibition Park's boating lake.
Flooding has caused issues on the city's Town Moor, including the cancellation of event LooseFest in 2023, and in 2012 run-off water from the space cascaded into Exhibition Park.
It is hoped the drainage system will trap and store excess water to prevent the lake from bursting its banks during heavy downpours.
The council's planning committee unambiguously agreed to the plans, which involve excavating about 8,400m3 of soil for the basin.
A 722ft-long (220m) drainage bund would trap and store excess water, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.
The aim is to prevent water reaching areas like Brandling Park and surrounding homes.
The council's report stated: "Brandling Park flood alleviation works were carried out, comprising raising the height of a wall and installation of two flood gates, resulting in surface water to be held within Brandling Park."
The report found that during heavy rainfall, water had the potential to flow on to Great North Road.
It continued: "Due to this reason, and that the design of the proposal is considered to appear as a natural feature within the Town Moor, the proposed layout is considered acceptable."
In August 2023, up to 60,000 people were turned away from LooseFest as organisers said heavy rain had left the site unsafe for festival-goers.
Meanwhile in 2012, run-off water from the sodden Town Moor cascaded into Exhibition Park, close to the Central Motorway.