The UK government’s Environment Agency (EA) has completed restoration works of a flood embankment in Gloucester's Longlevens area. 

The project will help enhance protection for approximately 50 properties in Cypress Gardens, a residential area within the city, from flooding. 

Work under the project involved repairs and enhancements to the 60m earth embankment, following a drop in its level of protection due to slippage.   

The upgrade is intended to extend the embankment’s lifespan and reduce future maintenance needs.  

The earth embankment is part of the Horsebere Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme that enhances protection for properties in Cypress Gardens, which has been historically affected by flooding.  

EA West Midlands operations manager Anthony Perry said: “We know the devastating impact that flooding can have, which is why protecting people and communities is our top priority.  

“The restoration work we have carried out on the earth embankment means the protection provided by the Horsebere Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme is now back to its original level which we hope provides peace of mind to residents.” 

The EA collaborated with Gloucester City Council on the scheme to safeguard homes during the recent Storms Babet and Henk.  

The embankment also underwent reprofiling, thereby adopting a gentler gradient, which is expected to improve local wildlife habitats.  

The EA submitted a planning application to build the £150m ($190.84m) Oxford flood alleviation scheme in 2022.