Toronto Close Lower Wick Worcester flood defences open

Raymond Grundy, 74, who campaigned for the defences in Toronto Close in Lower Wick in Worcester, spoke of his immense relief on behalf of residents now the 'superb' scheme is in place.

The Environment Agency with Worcestershire County Council, completed the £2.5 million flood risk management scheme.

Toronto Close has a history of flooding from the River Severn and River Teme, which impacts the water level of the nearby Laughern Brook during and after heavy rainfall.   

Lynn Denham, the leader of Worcester City Council, Labour's MP Tom Collins and Cllr Alan Amos, a city and county councillor, were among those to attend the ceremonial closing of the floodgate.

Mr Grundy gave a speech describing the unveiling as a momentous day and praising the city's former Conservative MP, Robin Walker, who had supported residents since 2014, helping plug a £1.5 million shortfall in the project.

SECURE: Ray Grundy makes sure the flood gate is secure to protect Toronto Close residents as Cllr Alan Amos looks on (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

Mr Grundy said: "The feeling is absolutely one of massive relief. For the first time in 17 years I can now approach the winter in a relaxed state and not worry about flood warnings."

The project was set back by Covid and by the need to secure planning permission which campaigners only learned in March 2022, believing initially work could take place under permitted development.

Cllr Amos described the project as a 'success story', praising Worcestershire County Council Highways and contractors Alun Griffiths for delivering the project 'on time and on budget'.

He described Ray Grundy as 'never about to give up'.

SECURE: Ray Grundy (nearest the camera) closes the newly installed flood gate which will protect Toronto Close in Lower Wick in Worcester during times of flood (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

"Ray, you have served your neighbours with with distinction. You remained so calm, stoic and determined," he said.

In July 2007 16 properties flooded, with the depth of water reaching up to 800mm.  Further flooding took place in 2020 during Storm Dennis, when many residents had to evacuate their homes. 

The scheme consists of an embankment across open land and through residential gardens along Laughern Brook as well as the strengthening and rebuilding of the existing historic wall along Old Road.

Two floodgates have been installed in front of existing accesses from Toronto Close onto Old Road.

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Area flood risk manager for the Environment Agency Charlie Chander said: “We know how devastating flooding can be and the terrible disruption flooding has caused to residents in Toronto Close in the past.

"We are delighted to have been able to deliver this flood risk management scheme that will help to reduce the risk of flooding to Toronto Close and hopefully help to give residents more peace of mind.” 

Ray Grundy has lived in the street with his wife since 1980 and for the first 27 years they didn’t experience flooding.

It was in July 2007 when flooding hit, following a wet summer and saturated ground led to flood water rising from Laughern Brook and River Teme and some residents needing to be evacuated.  

Mr Grundy said: “It was much worse for neighbours who had catastrophic floods inside and had the devastation of having to move out and stay in temporary accommodation away from the close while their homes were refurbished.” 

Another flood hit the road in 2020 leading to further evacuations and more disruption.