The Environment Agency has unveiled a new project aimed at enhancing flood resilience along the River Ray in Wichelstowe. The initiative focuses on critical infrastructure upgrades at the Rushey Platt Flood Storage Area in South Leaze, designed to prevent the river from overflowing during periods of intense rainfall.
Central to the project is the replacement of the existing debris screen at the upstream culvert of the River Ray watercourse. The current installation will be swapped for a modern, CIRIA-compliant combined debris and security screen of identical dimensions. Beyond simply replacing aging hardware, the new design aims to improve the long-term management of the site. The updated screen features integrated stepped access into the channel, a design choice specifically implemented to allow for safer inspection, routine operation, and ongoing maintenance.
In addition to the mechanical upgrades, the project includes ecological improvements aimed at protecting the local watercourse. The Environment Agency plans to install brushwood fascines—bundles of cut branches—along the riverbank to provide structural stability and prevent erosion.
To facilitate the construction phase, a temporary works compound covering approximately 50 square metres will be established at The Orchards in Wroughton. The Environment Agency has provided assurances that this site will be fully remediated and returned to its original condition once the improvements are finalized.
Addressing the environmental impact of the construction, the Environment Agency determined that the works will not necessitate a formal environmental statement. This decision follows the guidelines set out in Schedule 2 of The Environmental Impact Assessment (Land Drainage Improvement Works) Regulations 1999. Officials concluded that, with appropriate safeguards, the project will not have significant adverse effects on the surrounding environment.
To manage any potential risks during construction, the Agency has developed a comprehensive Environmental Action Plan. This plan, which was informed by an Environmental Assessment Matrix, establishes strict protocols regarding water quality, flood risk, and the protection of local wildlife. Among the mandatory measures are robust pollution prevention controls and rigorous biosecurity procedures, which are designed to prevent the inadvertent spread of invasive non-native species into the river ecosystem. The plan will be active throughout the entire construction process, guiding activity before, during, and after the physical works.
While the agency has deemed the environmental impact to be minimal, it has maintained a transparent approach regarding the documentation. Members of the public, or interested parties wishing to review the Environmental Action Plan or the Environmental Assessment Matrix, are invited to request these documents directly from the project manager.
The Environment Agency is also opening a formal window for public feedback. Any individuals or groups wishing to submit representations regarding the environmental effects of these proposed works must do so in writing. Correspondence should be sent to the Environment Agency office at Kings Meadow House, Kings Meadow Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 8DQ. Submissions must be received within 30 days of October 8, 2026, to be considered as part of the formal evaluation process.
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