Extension needed to complete flood prevention scheme at Pednormead End, Chesham

Crucial works to replace an underground culvert as part of the flood prevention scheme at Pednormead End in Chesham have progressed well. However, unexpected additional layers to the ‘spaghetti’ layout of pipes, ducts and cables, combined with delays due to the effects of Covid-19, mean that an extension to the project is needed.

Despite advanced survey works and close cooperation with five utility companies who have apparatus running through the culvert, Buckinghamshire Council has had no choice but to extend the project and current road closure measures to 23 December so all the works can be fully completed.

This is an important and complex scheme for the Pednormead area and its residents. As well as installing a new culvert to help reduce the risk of future flooding, the scheme also involves the renewal of important utility company equipment such as fibre optic cabling, gas and water pipes.

Buckinghamshire Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Nick Naylor said that progress on the job had been incredibly complex. “Despite our best intentions, we have run into a number of unforeseen issues. Can I straight away apologise to local residents and people that use this route that we’ve had to extend the closure. We’ve had no choice unfortunately.

“The Council, Transport for Buckinghamshire and all the parties involved will be working as hard as possible to get this important work completed and I thank everyone for their patience and understanding,” Nick added.

Commenting on the extension of the closure, Local Buckinghamshire Councillor for Chiltern Ridges, Jane MacBean said: “I know how frustrating it will be for local residents, but we all know how important this scheme is for future flood prevention in the area and the work just has to be completed despite any on-going inconvenience. I am in constant touch with the delivery team and know the setbacks they face, but they continue to problem solve at pace to ensure the works are completed as quickly as possible.”

The Council, Transport for Buckinghamshire and all the contractors involved will carry on working with local residents while the works continue. For any issues or questions about the work, please use the dedicated e-mail address: pednormeadend@Buckinghamshire.gov.uk or call 01296 674846.

You can keep up-to-date with progress on the Council’s dedicated scheme webpage – https://www.buckscc.gov.uk/services/environment/flooding/strategic-flood-management/the-pednormead-end-project