A £300,000 flood improvement scheme, approved by Devon County Council, will protect properties affected by repeated flooding in a South Hams town.

More than 25 properties in Ivybridge are vulnerable to flooding during heavy rainfall when surface water drainage systems become overwhelmed.

The improvements will protect properties in Claymans Pathway and Slipperstone Drive, increasing the capacity of a culvert that runs from Stibbs Lane and discharges flood water into an open watercourse.

This is one of two schemes approved by DCC, designed to provide improved protection for up to the one in 100 year flood events. The other is in Uplyme.

Both communities have suffered repeat flooding in recent years and remain at high risk of future flood events during periods of heavy rainfall unless protection is improved.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for flood risk management and local member for Ivybridge, said: "These are essential flood improvements as there is still a very real flood risk in Ivybridge and Uplyme which could impact on properties and businesses. The investment in these schemes will improve the level of protection and reduce the risk of flooding to both communities.”

Design work for the Ivybridge scheme has been carried out in liaison with South Hams District Councils. Business cases for the two schemes are currently being prepared. These will be submitted to the Environment Agency to bid for £180,000 from Defra Flood Defence Grant in Aid and £60,000 from Local Levy. 

Subject to successful applications for funding, it is hoped that work will start on the improvements in the spring.