MP visits Queenborough Barrier

12th November 2018
MP visits Queenborough Barrier

To mark the completion of the new Queenborough Barrier, Isle of Sheppey, Environment Agency officers were joined by Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Gordon Henderson, to witness a test closure and talk about the project.

The barrier, at the mouth of the Queenborough Creek, protects homes and businesses on the Isle of Sheppey. Originally constructed in the early 1980s, the structure has been fully refurbished to provide greater tidal flood protection to some 311 properties.

The new gates provide a faster response to tidal surges and can close in just 2 minutes; compared to up to 30 minutes previously. A new silt management system will prevent silt build up which can seriously affect barrier operation. Further enhancements include greater safety and a control room overlooking the channel to improve navigational safety when operating the barrier. Bat boxes have also been installed outside the control room.

Environment Agency Area Director Julie Foley, said:

'It’s great news that we’ve modernised the Queenborough Creek Barrier, providing better flood protection to hundreds of homes and businesses on the Isle of Sheppey.'

Nevertheless, we still want people to be aware of their flood risk. You can find this out and sign up to our free Flood Warnings system via the GOV.UK website.'

Gordon Henderson MP, said

'The barrier is a very impressive structure and I am very grateful to the Environment Agency for their hard work and money spent on this valuable asset at Queenborough.

I am impressed with the way that the structure operates and with the backup systems that were installed to ensure the structure’s resilience.'