The cost of the Silk Stream Flood Alleviation Scheme, which will reduce the likelihood of future flooding in Edgware, Burnt Oak and Colindale, has risen from £6.3million to £10million.

When the scheme is completed in 2005 or 2006, it should mean that scenes such as those in 1992, when widespread flooding damaged 300 homes and boats ferried people along Station Road, Edgware, will not be seen again.

The Environment Agency, aims to spend more than a year planning and preparing for construction, with an estimated start date of April or May 2003.

Barnet Council, which is to contribute £1.1m to the project, has given planning permission for the scheme, but the Environment Agency are still waiting for planning permission from Harrow Council.

The proposals announced last October which are currently being reviewed involve the construction of six new flood storage areas at natural basins along Silk Stream and its tributaries in Edgware, Burnt Oak, Stanmore and Canons Park, and the refurbishment of four existing areas.

December 5, 2001 18:39