Natural flood defences prove their worth
The British coast’s newest natural flood defences proved their worth as they easily fended off the biggest tides in over a decade.
WWT Steart Marshes in Somerset were created one year ago as a natural buffer between houses and the tides of the Bristol Channel, which are the second biggest in the world.
They took the place of crumbling earth banks that were leaving homes and businesses at risk as sea levels rose. On a high autumn tide they hold around 4.2 million cubic metres of water, enough to fill the Albert Hall 50 times over.
In their first year, the marshes have quickly become a haven for wildlife and a popular place for local walkers and birdwatchers.
Alys Laver, who manages Steart Marshes for the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, said:
“High tides like we’ve had today would have given the old sea wall a battering. Instead, this massive quantity of water has just been swallowed up by the marshes. It goes to show what can be achieved by working with nature.
“Quite a few of the local villagers came down to check out the tide. It’s been beautiful and we were treated to the sight of a flock of egrets picking fish out of the water right in front of the hide. The wonderful thing is that it’s created this space for wildlife, as well as protecting homes and businesses.”
Richard Cox from the Environment Agency, who managed the creation of Steart Marshes, said:
“The Environment Agency’s objectives in building the Steart scheme were to improve flood defences locally and elsewhere in the Severn Estuary while creating high quality habitats for wildlife and improved public access. We are pleased to see the site developing as intended and the continued involvement of so many local people in shaping its future.”
