Flood defence construction continues in the Derwent Street, Exeter Bridge and the River Gardens this week.
The next stage of work in project Munio begins this week on Exeter Bridge, as new flood gates will be installed as part of the Our City, Our River works in the city.
From Monday 28th October, a full road closure will be in place for two weeks whilst four new flood gates are installed at either end of Exeter Bridge. A diversion will be put in place will be in place during this time. Pedestrian access will still be available during this time.
Work has been ongoing since June to pave and realign the road, as well as the creation of new flood defences behind the Riverside Chambers and Full Street. During this time Derwent Street has been closed one way.
As part of the works, from Monday 4th November, the River Gardens footpath will be closed to pedestrians for four weeks whilst flood defences are installed in the public space. During this time a diversion will be in place for pedestrians from Holmes Bridge via the Morledge to Derwent Street.
Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader of the Council, said:
This project is not just about ensuring the city is better equipped to avoid a significant future flooding event, it is about delivering regeneration to areas of the city. There is also an economic aspect to the works that will bring jobs, homes and growth to Derby and region. The Exeter Bridge and Derwent Street works are the latest phase of the Our City, Our River Munio works, creating a barrier for flood water entering the heart of the city. This work is part of the flood defence and exciting redevelopment work planned for the River Gardens which will see Derby river side not only transformed but protected. The flood defence work on Derwent Street will have limited impact on traffic whilst it’s delivered as this is not a strategic route for general traffic. Access to Derwent Street area and Assembly Rooms car park will still be possible through Full Street. However, the closure of Derwent Street and Exeter Bridge will mean some adjustments to bus services, this has been discussed with the operators and additional bus stops have been arranged for the period of the works to ensure there is minimal impact on journey times.
Munio is Our City, Our River’s latest project to reduce flood risk concentrating along the west side of the riverbank, improving protection to some existing businesses in the city centre and Pride Park. The £95million OCOR project has been developed to reduce flood risk through long-term, and sustainable economic development, creating a high quality riverside, linking the city centre with the river.
The project will also enhance defined areas of existing habitat, actively promoting and improving biodiversity in various locations along the Derwent stretching from Darley Abbey to Alvaston Park.
For public transport, please check with your travel provider for diversions or changes of routes. More information about the OCOR project is available on the Our City Our River webpage.