Further investment boost for Chesham town centre regeneration
Buckinghamshire Council has announced a £130,000 investment package to introduce a sustainable drainage system in Chesham town centre to improve surface water runoff and tackle flooding in The Broadway – one of the town’s busiest pedestrian areas.
The new system, known as SuDS, will form part of the council’s wider Chesham Regeneration Programme, which aims to revitalise the town centre and deliver lasting benefits to the community.
The project will see the installation of a premanufactured drainage system beneath new tree and shrub planting, helping to manage flood water more effectively while also improving the quality of water entering the River Chess.
As well as addressing long-standing flooding and maintenance issues, the scheme will transform a neglected part of the town centre. New greenery and street furniture will create a more attractive and welcoming space for residents and visitors to enjoy, supporting local businesses by encouraging people to spend more time in the town centre.
It forms part of the council’s wider regeneration vision for Chesham and will use funds from the local ‘Project Groundwater’ scheme.
Cllr Julie Ward, Deputy Cabinet Member for Resources and Town Centre Regeneration, said:
“This is great news for Chesham – not only are we addressing long-term flooding issues, we are also driving forward town centre improvements within this scheme. We are transforming a key part of the town centre with new greenery and street furniture and by doing so, we’re creating a more attractive and welcoming space for everyone. Regeneration projects like this are key to building a vibrant, successful future for Chesham and its community, and we are working closely with key stakeholders including the Town Council to make sure this project runs smoothly.”
Cllr Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change & Waste, said:
“This scheme is another example of Buckinghamshire Council tackling flooding issues in our county. It will protect and enhance Chesham’s environment by reducing the risk of flooding and improving the quality of water entering the River Chess. By using sustainable solutions, Buckinghamshire Council is ensuring Chesham is better protected from flooding for years to come.”
Buckinghamshire Council has been working in partnership with Thames Water on the Smarter Water Catchment project as the plans have been developed, which also includes other key local stakeholders. The scheme has strong community support and work is expected to begin following the completion of a procurement process. The council will remain in regular contact with the community as the scheme implementation plan develops to ensure smooth delivery and keeping disruption to a minimum.
Find out more information about the Chesham Regeneration Programme.