View, looking downstream, concrete flood barrier with lowered sluice gates reflecting water River Wyre, Garstang, Lancashire, UK
The Garstang Flood Barrier, when raised, holds back floodwaters from devastating downstream communities in the catchment of the River Wyre. A nearby information board reads: 'Flooding from the River Wyre has always been a concern, especially for the areas of Garstang and St Michael's. Following severe flooding in 1980 the flood basin at Garstang and Catterall was created. Since then there have been several flood events. However the basin prevented major flooding to property. The Environment Agency manages the Flood Basin. When river levels are high and the flood barrier raised, the Millennium Green, as well as surrounding land is flooded in a controlled manner. This helps to protect people and property from flooding in downstream communities. Wherever possible affected landowners are informed before the basin is used.' The River Wyre responds rapidly to heavy rain. The steep slopes, thin soils and impermeable bedrock of the upper catchment in the Forest of Bowland give rise to the rapid overland flow of rainwater. The downstream discharge meeting tidal waters flooding upstream from Fleetwood, where the Wyre enters the sea, also worsened flooding in the past. When raised, the flood barrier sluice gates, here looking downstream from the Millennium Green, hold back upper catchment floodwaters, without entirely blocking the flow of the river.
Size: 4456px × 2592px
Location: River Wyre Flood Barrier, Garstang, Lancashire, United Kingdom
Photo credit: © robert harrison / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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