Rotherham Council’s Cabinet is expected to approve £3m in funding that will allow a project designed to protect residents from flooding to progress.
When it meets on 19 January, the Council’s Cabinet is set to allocate funds from its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - a fund paid into by developers alongside planning permissions for new developments, like housing – to the Whiston Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme.
The scheme is part of a wider programme of six priority flood alleviation projects across the borough and aims to reduce flood risk to 53 homes in the Whiston area.
Whiston Brook poses a significant flood risk when the brook’s channel is overwhelmed by high volumes of water during intense rainfall. This can lead to significant flooding, as seen most recently in October 2023.
The scheme aims to address recurring issues and protect the community from future flood damage by focusing on three key sites.
At Worrygoose Lane, a new retaining wall will help manage water levels and prevent overflow. A flood storage reservoir will also be created to hold excess water during periods of heavy rain, reducing pressure on the brook and surrounding areas.
Additionally, improvements will be made to Royds Moor Culvert, alongside the development of a wetland area at Pinch Mill Brook, which will help slow water flow and improve drainage capacity.
Cllr Lynda Marshall, Cabinet Spokesperson for Street Scene and Green Spaces, said: “Back in 2021, the Council committed nearly £6m to develop plans for flood alleviation schemes across the borough, including at Whiston. Works are set to begin this year, and this allocation of funding is the final piece in the jigsaw necessary to see this scheme through to completion.
“The Whiston Brook scheme will reduce flood risk to dozens of homes from the devastating impact of flooding, making a real difference to people’s lives. By reducing the risk of flooding to more than 50 homes, we’re helping protect families, property and peace of mind. Alongside new measures like a flood storage reservoir and improved drainage, this project will strengthen the village’s resilience for years to come.”
In February last year, Cabinet approved the first two CIL proposals, with £256,074 allocated to enhance five medical centres across the borough - serving areas impacted by new housing - directly addressing the strain on local healthcare services.
Another £787,400 contributed towards the Trans Pennine Trail Community Access project in Wath, designed to enhance a 5km section of the Trans Pennine Trail to upgrade the existing infrastructure, improving connectivity for residents.
The fund now stands at just over £8.2m, before the expected £3m allocation towards the Whiston Brook FAS.
