Town centre flood defence plan to be put to public

Designs for a scheme aimed at reducing flood risk to Guildford town centre are to go before the public for the first time.

The Environment Agency (EA) has been working in partnership with Guildford Borough Council and Surrey County Council on measures to help combat the long-term flooding issues in the Surrey town.

The Guildford Flood Alleviation Scheme said it aimed to enhance the riverside environment and build better connections between the town centre and River Wey.

Guildford Borough Council leader Julia McShane said the scheme was "an important step towards protecting our town for the future".

Jon Mansbridge, EA project director, added: "This once-in-a-generation project will not only reduce flood risk but also help unlock the potential for vibrant town centre regeneration."

Proposals shared with the public in February last year have been further developed, with project partners soon to submit a business case to provide justification for the scheme.

The EA said that flood defences would be visually integrated into existing and regenerated areas of the river corridor, reducing flood risk to the town centre.

Information afternoons will be held on 17 January at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, between 12:00 GMT and 17:00, and on 22 January at the Guildford Borough Council offices, between 15:00 and 18:00.

An online presentation will also take place on 20 January between 19:00 and 20:00.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.