Final flood units installed as Phase 1 of Preston and South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme reaches major milestone
The Scheme has reached a major milestone with the installation of the final flood glazing units, concluding the first phase of construction. This achievement marks the culmination of extensive engineering work that has delivered more than 1.8 kilometres of new flood defences across the river corridor, including the installation of 563 pre-cast concrete units.
The project has progressed through a carefully phased programme since it began in late 2021. Area 2A reached completion in March 2023, followed by Area 1A in March 2024. The Riverside portion of Area 2B was completed in December 2024. Area 1C was completed in December 2025, and with the structural works in Area 1B now finished, this final area is on track to reopen to the public by the end of May.
Area 1B has been the final focus of construction activity, and the team has now installed the last of the pre-cast flood wall and glazing units, reinstated the carriageway, rebuilt and resurfaced the pavements, and completed hard and soft landscaping. The installation of flood glazing units, which allow views across the river, signal the end of major construction works – the defences are now officially watertight
The Scheme will improve long-term flood resilience for thousands of homes and businesses but also enhance the river corridor for public use.
Other community benefits include, the refurbishment of Broadgate Gardens and the Miller Park entrance, the creation of wildlife habitat at Ribble Sidings, as well as upgraded footpaths and better accessibility along both sides of the river.
“Reaching this stage of work marks a key milestone for the entire Preston and South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme. Installing the final units and completing the reinstatement brings us significantly closer to the full completion of this phase, and it’s a moment everyone involved should be proud of. The dedication, hard work, and collaboration shown across our teams, partners, and contractors have been instrumental in getting us here. Their commitment has ensured that every challenge was met with solutions, every deadline was approached with determination, and every section of the scheme reflects the quality and resilience our communities deserve.”
Phil Mahon VolkerStevin Site Agent
With the final structural elements now in place and the defences watertight, the project team will focus on remaining reinstatement works before completion in July. This
milestone represents a significant step toward delivering a safer, more resilient future for communities along the River Ribble.
