A PROJECT by a council to develop flood relief programmes for areas of the district most at risk is behind schedule, a new report has stated.

Maldon District Council’s key corporate activity of working with partners to seek funding and bring forward flood relief projects for surface flooding risk areas in the Maldon district had a deadline for March next year.

However, in a report that went before the council’s overview and scrutiny committee last week it was ruled the KCA was behind schedule, with a risk of new housing schemes - including the North Heybridge Garden Suburb - proceeding before relative flood relief projects have been finalised or being delayed themselves.

The report commented: “Progress continues to be made on the major flood relief schemes with the majority on track, some successful funding bids and further funding being sought.

“For The North Heybridge Flood Relief Scheme (Funding application), work is continuing with consultants Capita and the Environment Agency to finalise the business case. This work will continue into 2017-18, but with a view to achieving final submission for grant aid in early summer 2017.

“For Maldon, Brickhouse Farm, the project is being led by ECC and is progressing through the detailed design stage. It is understood that ECC are in discussion with their asset team regarding displacement of the allotments into another suitable area. Once available the detailed designs will be reported to Members before progressing to the planning application stage.”

Richard Holmes, Director of Customers and Community for Maldon District Council, said “The council continues to work closely with our partners to make progress on major flood relief schemes for the benefit district residents.

“Two flood relief projects are considered behind schedule which is regrettable, however the Council is working closely with the key delivery partners to ensure progress is maintained and the desired outcomes are achieved.”