CONSTRUCTION work has started on a scheme which will improve flood protection for more than 660 properties in Crindau and Shaftesbury.

The scheme by Natural Resources Wales will include building flood walls and embankments along the River Usk and Crindau Pill, between the M4 motorway and the mainline railway.

It is hoped the scheme will alleviate the risk of extensive flooding to the community of Crindau, which has been flooded a number of times over the years. In 1981, 500 homes and businesses were affected by flash flooding, while more recently, in 2014, homes were evacuated after tide levels reached eight metres above sea level at Newport Docks.

The new flood embankment will be built between Lyne Road and the south Shaftesbury Park,replacing an existing flood defence embankment that is in poor condition. The footpath and cycle path at Shaftesbury Park will be placed on the top of the embankment.

As part of the scheme a new amenity area will also be built to improve the local environment.

Natural Resource Wales has said that the three football fields will remain open during and after construction and that access to the changing rooms will not be affected.

Other work at Shaftesbury Park includes new footpaths onto the embankment from neighbouring streets; the demolition of the disused toilet block and changes to the garden of The Lodge. New access steps and a ramp will also be constructed to enable people to access the football pitches from the changing rooms and new grassed terraces may be created along the embankment next to the football pitches.

Several trees will need to be felled to enable the flood defence wall to be constructed but the largest tree in the play area, a London plane, will be protected. New flower beds will be created and new seating provided so that park users can enjoy views of the River Usk.

A new stone faced flood wall of 1.5 metres high will be constructed alongside the allotments on Pugsley Street which will have railings mounted on top of the wall for security.

Tim England, flood risk manager from Natural Resource Wales, said: “Keeping communities safe from flooding is one of our key roles and there is a long history of tidal flooding in Crindau.

“This scheme is important in reducing flood risk for the local residents and businesses, as well as improving local amenities.

“We’re confident that this new scheme will really make a difference to people living and working in Crindau and Shaftesbury who have lived with the threat of flooding for many years.”

Galliford Try, which has been appointed for the construction, has started setting up its compound next door to Harold John Ltd on Adelaide Street.

For more information visit www.naturalresources.wales/crindau.