Views sought on update to flood alleviation scheme

A public consultation has been launched into plans to update a major flood protection scheme in Surrey.

The Lower Mole Flood Alleviation Scheme, which covers the River Mole between Hersham and the River Thames, was built in the 1980s following a serious flood in 1968.

Through an enlarged channel and system of sluice gates, it protects 1,300 homes and businesses between Esher and Thames Ditton from flooding.

The Environment Agency said the scheme is now nearing the end of its life and needs to be updated to maintain the protection it offers.

The River Mole has a history of flooding, though the September 1968 event is still considered to be the largest and most severe recorded flood event along the river.

The Environment Agency says it has been estimated that several thousand properties in the lower reaches of the River Mole were flooded during that event.

It says any update work would provide protection for the area for the next century.

The public consultation runs until 6 November.

A drop-in event will be held at Elmbridge Civic Centre, in Esher, from 15:00-18:00BST on 11 September.

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