Sidmouth amphitheatre is also flood scheme

Work starting on unique project

Work is set to begin on a flood prevention scheme in Sidmouth that doubles up as an amphitheatre.

The £550,000 project is thought to be the first of its kind in the UK. As well as protecting more than 100 homes and businesses around the Knowle area of the town, it will be an amenity for the local community.

In the initial phase of work of the Devon County Council project, new drainage will be installed on Station Road to divert surface water away from properties. Once collected, the water will run down a wildflower-lined swale into a newly formed amphitheatre in the grounds of the Knowle.

The underground storage system will initially hold floodwaters beneath the amphitheatre with a capacity to contain water up to a one-in-30-year storm event, while the tiered sections above ground will be filled as needed in more extreme storm events, enabling up to half a metre of water to be stored above ground during a one-in-100-year storm event.

Cllr Roger Croad, Devon County Council's cabinet member for environmental services, said: “I’m sure the property owners that will have flood risk reduced through this scheme will be pleased to see work starting ahead of the winter. The development of the amphitheatre will provide an effective storage area for surface water, but it also provides a positive community asset for the town.”

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s cabinet member for highway management and member for Sidmouth, added: “The amphitheatre provides a unique outdoor feature for Sidmouth that I’m certain will be well used, including at future folk festivals. It’s a win-win for the town.”

The scheme has been developed through the County Council’s surface water management plan for Sidmouth after properties in the town were flooded in November 2014. It is being funded by Devon County Council, DEFRA and a local levy contribution administered by the south west flood and coastal committee. The work is being undertaken by contractor South West Highways and is due to be completed in November.

The second phase of the scheme, which will focus on drainage improvements within the town, is currently being developed and is expected to be delivered next financial year.