The Department of Infrastructure is embarking on a scheme to protect areas of Castletown from flooding during extreme weather events, the Isle of Man Government said in its latest release.
The £2.3 million project is part of the Government’s overall strategy to mitigate the impact of rising sea levels and severe weather as a result of climate change.
The Department has been working in partnership with flood management specialists JBA Consulting to develop long-term measures to combat harbor flooding and wave over-topping at vulnerable coastal locations around the Island.
The Castletown scheme, which received planning approval in October 2016, involves the installation of raised or set-back harbor walls. This approach is designed to prevent flooding around Back Hope Street, Victoria Road, Bridge Street, Qualtrough’s Yard and the Boat Park.
Infrastructure Minister, Ray Harmer, said: “Homes and businesses in Castletown were badly hit at the start of 2014 when extreme conditions led to widespread flooding and storm damage. Climate change is making weather events of this nature a more frequent part of our lives. It is clear that we need to adapt to meet this challenge.”
“The Department is leading Government’s response by developing long-term plans to reduce the financial and social costs of coastal flooding.”
The main scheme in Castletown will start on Monday 8 May, said the release.
Auldyn Construction Ltd has been awarded the contract and the work to improve the flood defenses is programmed to take 45 weeks to complete.
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