Major boost for Boston Barrier as port withdraws objection

How the proposed Boston Barrier is set to look. Picture supplied

It has formally withdrawn its objection to the Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) application - which basically gives permission for the construction of the barrier - made by the Environment Agency in August 2016.

This comes after extensive discussions between the Environment Agency and the Port around the proposed TWAO which will go to a public inquiry next month.

The £100 million Boston Barrier will reduce the risk of tidal flooding to more than 17,000 properties in the area.

Boston Barrier director Adam Robinson said: “We’re delighted to be working alongside the Port of Boston, the statutory Harbour Authority, to secure consent and enable the delivery of such an important scheme for the town of Boston, following the December 2013 tidal surge where many properties and businesses were affected.”

The barrier on the River Witham will be constructed alongside the town’s dock and London Road near Newton’s Corner.

The port has agreed that the Environment Agency can provide temporary berthing facilities for use by the Boston fishing fleet during construction of the proposed barrier.

They are also working with the agency to ensure that the sequencing of the barrier construction works would allow the port’s operations to continue in a safe and efficient manner throughout the construction programme.

Neil Harris, from the Port of Boston, said: “We are pleased to announce that we are fully supportive of the Boston Barrier Scheme that the Environment Agency are promoting for the town of Boston.

“We have been working closely with the Environment Agency throughout the optioneering and development phases of the Boston Barrier Scheme and we will continue to work together during the detailed design and construction stage, particularly in relation to ensuring the continued safe navigation of all vessels on the Haven.

“There will be some disruption to navigation during key construction activities, but the port is confident these can be managed and kept to a minimum through continued partnership working with the Environment Agency and their contractor. Safety of navigation will be a priority at all times.”

The Public Inquiry for the proposed Transport and Works Act Order starts on April 19 at the Boston Barrier Hub, Marsh Lane, PE21 7PJ.

l For more information visit: www.consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/lcnnth-flood-risk/bostonbarriertwao/