Phase One: Embankments

In November, Breheny Civil Engineering won the contract to deliver earthworks for this project. Their work includes addressing low spots, managing seepage, and other elements relating to raised riverbanks.

Since then, works have been progressing well across several smaller sites in the Lower Witham area. Throughout December earthworks were completed at five sites. This involved the team topping up low embankment areas, carrying out localised repairs, and removing vegetation to improve long-term resilience.

At some sites, soil has been added to raise low areas, then seeded with grass and covered with a biodegradable geotextile. This material helps grass germinate and stabilises the soil while roots establish. Once the grass takes hold, the covering naturally breaks down, leaving a strengthened embankment. You may see this method used more widely where embankments are raised.

Biodegradable geotextile covering an area where a low spot has recently been raised. Along the Witham Bank roadside flood wall, we have strengthened foundations by excavating a narrow trench and installing compacted clay. This reduces seepage risk and prevents future settlement of the wall. The defence height will now be improved by building a low concrete-bag wall to tie the embankment into the existing flood wall.

Excavation works carried out along a stretch of the Witham Bank flood wall.

Works completed along a stretch of the Witham Bank flood wall.

Works were paused over Christmas and will resume in the New Year.