A number of Spalding gardens are set to be dug up to improve an underground drainage channel, though concerns have been expressed over the impact it will have on wildlife.
The South Holland Internal Drainage Board claims the ‘worst case scenario’ could see ‘up to 692 homes flooded and cause more than £164m’ of damage if the Exeter Drain fails.
It is a 1.5km long watercourse which empties into the Coronation Channel next to the Spalding Drove bridge.
Works on most of its length are to take place throughout 2026, according to the Water Management Alliance.
It includes the complete replacement of the 300 metre section that’s underground between Halmer Gate and Albert Street which will necessitate the digging up of a number the gardens of homes on Cley Hall Drive and Maple Grove.
Richard Beavis, who lives on the latter said: “I understand the need for refurbishment work, but I do have major concerns about the implications this will have on the local wildlife, most notably the foxes’ den.
“I am very concerned about the welfare implications during breeding season when cubs may be present.
“Only yesterday did I see two muntjac deer and one of the foxes at the bottom of the garden.
“I just hope the foxes find a new home and it does not interfere with the cubs we see most years.
Mr Beavis says that his and other gardens on Maple Grove have trees subject to a tree protection order.
He said the drainage board initially said the trees in his garden are not the ones subject to the tree preservation order.
Mr Beavis continued that South Holland District Council’s tree preservation officer had ruled in his favour, and the South Holland Drainage Board has applied to the authority to fell the trees.
The Voice has contacted South Holland District Council, to clarify but had not received a response at the time of going to press.
He said: “Looks like I will lose the protected sycamores, one of my apple trees, a pair tree and a holly bush. They have stated they will replace them but obviously they will not be full size trees.
“I think some of my neighbours will lose a lot more.”
A spokesman for the Water Management Alliance said South Holland Internal Drainage Board was set to carry out the work, ensuring surface water can continue to drain safely through the town and onward to the Coronation Channel’.
“Inspections have identified that sections of the drain, particularly underground culverts (piped watercourses), have deteriorated significantly.
“Without intervention, there is a risk of blockages or structural failure, which could lead to surface water flooding.
“South Holland IDB is working directly with affected residents to explain the works, agree access arrangements and minimise disruption wherever possible.
“Where tree removal is unavoidable to safely access, upgrade and maintain the drainage infrastructure, South Holland IDB has appointed an independent ecology consultant and tree specialist to ensure all works are carried out appropriately and in line with environmental best practice.
“For every tree removed, property owners will be compensated to enable replacement planting where a suitable location away from infrastructure can be identified.
“In addition, two further trees will be donated to local public open space sites that are seeking tree donations, helping to deliver a net gain in tree planting across the area.”
Mr Duncan Worth, chairman of South Holland Internal Drainage Board said: “These works are essential to maintaining the integrity of Spalding’s flood protection system.
“The Exeter Drain is a critical asset and investing in its improvement now will help protect hundreds of homes for decades to come.
“We understand that construction activity can be disruptive and we are committed to working closely with residents throughout the project to keep disruption to an absolute minimum.”
