Leading European engineering consultancy, Grontmij has been appointed by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council to quantify the costs and benefits involved in developing a Surface Water Management Plan for the Burstwick Drain catchment.
Partially funded by the Environment Agency, these plans are becoming increasingly important for local authorities in determining the best approach to reduce the risk of surface water flooding, the term used to describe flooding from sewers, drains, groundwater and runoff from land and small watercourses as a result of heavy rainfall.
The work, worth an estimated £50,000 over six months, is the first Surface Water Management Plan commission for Grontmij, although the team’s capabilities in flood risk mitigation studies date back over 30 years. As a pilot study, lessons learned will also be shared with others undertaking similar commissions.
Chris Wotherspoon, technical director for Grontmij, said: “In consultation with the principal stakeholders, we will be identifying flood risks within the catchment and investigating mitigation measures.
“The area has suffered severe flooding in the recent past and, although construction works are ongoing or programmed to reduce the fluvial flood risks in places, there are still residual risks. This overarching study will consider all such residual risks and should be of benefit to the whole community. We’re delighted to be undertaking this for the East Riding of Yorkshire.”
Michael Metzler, project manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Following the considerable impacts flooding has had on our region over the last few years, this pilot exercise is an appropriate step to prepare for flood risk and manage our priority areas. Once a better understanding as to what offers value for money is dentified, we will be embarking on further work around the East Riding.
“We are committed to providing the local community with efficient, well managed services and the Surface Water Management Plan is part of our investment in the region’s safety and well being. We’re delighted to be working with Grontmij to deliver this.”
Grontmij is a leading multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy operating across environment, water, transportation, energy and sustainable planning and design.
Spokesperson available for comment
Chris Wotherspoon, technical director for Grontmij, is available for comment on this story.
Chris Wotherspoon
• 36 years experience in the UK Water Industry with Jacobs, Black & Veatch and Grontmij. Significant experience of flood risk management studies and projects, including a number in and around Hull and in the Humber Estuary.
• Joined Grontmij in 2007 and has national responsibility for flood risk management projects.