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Storm Recovery Investment Delivers Lasting Resilience for King’s Lynn IDB
The King’s Lynn Internal Drainage Board (IDB) today welcomed Terry Jermy MP to the Eau Brink Tidal Outfall, to see how the Board successfully delivered the improvement project as part of a major programme of flood resilience works funded through Defra’s IDB Storm Recovery and Asset Improvement Fund.
Through this funding, King’s Lynn IDB delivered a high-impact programme focused on strengthening critical infrastructure and improving flood resilience across its district. Earlier in the programme, major culvert repairs were completed, alongside essential upgrades at Green Bank Pumping Station which have enhanced protection for Marshland St. James, parts of Wisbech and the surrounding agricultural landscape, while improvements to Chalk Lane Penstock strengthened water level management and flood protection along the River Nene.
The final project within the programme was the comprehensive upgrade of the Eau Brink tidal outfall, a key structure that manages water levels within the Mill Basin and supports drainage from the Green Bank catchment.
The existing sluice doors, last refurbished in the 1980s, had deteriorated over time, with leakage and wear reducing their reliability. The completed works included the replacement of the tidal flood defence doors, sills and seals, together with the installation of a new full-height emergency penstock, providing a robust backup isolation system and significantly improving resilience against tidal surges from the River Great Ouse.
The upgraded outfall now protects approximately 3,763 hectares of land, more than 130 properties and two pumping stations. It also improves operational efficiency by allowing more effective gravity discharge during outgoing tides, reducing reliance on pumping while providing greater resilience for the future.
The scheme was fully funded through Defra’s IDB Storm Recovery and Asset Improvement Fund, enabling delivery without additional cost to local ratepayers.
Following his visit to the completed scheme on Friday 14 August, Terry Jermy MP, Member of Parliament for South West Norfolk, said: “Flooding can devastate and disrupt families and businesses across South West Norfolk, and strengthening our local flood defences is essential. This investment from the Labour Government will make a meaningful difference, helping to protect homes, support local businesses and give our communities the security they deserve.”
King’s Lynn IDB Chairman, Brian Long, said: “This programme demonstrates the value of targeted investment in flood risk infrastructure. Thanks to the Government’s Storm Recovery and Asset Improvement Fund, we have been able to deliver a series of important improvements that strengthen our assets, improve operational resilience and provide lasting benefits for local communities, businesses and agriculture.”
The completion of the Eau Brink Outfall marks the successful conclusion of King’s Lynn IDB’s Storm Recovery and Asset Improvement Programme, leaving a stronger and more resilient water management network to support people, businesses and the environment across West Norfolk.
Read more about the IDB Storm Recovery and Asset Improvement Funding secured by the WMA’s Member Boards in our News piece; Delivering Recovery, Resilience and Lasting Impact
