Author(s)

J. R. Greenwood, P. Atchison & S. P. Corbet

Abstract

An innovative low cost self erecting flood barrier is described (patent pending) and its applications discussed. The flood defence is provided by a geomembrane embedded in a backfilled trench and attached to rigid covers that rise with the flood waters. The covers are restrained by ties attached to the membrane. It is considered particularly appropriate for protection against floods up to 1m in depth where a permanent defence barrier would intrude into the landscape or require the import of expensive fill material to create impermeable bunds. It is also relevant on more permeable ground where foundation cut off walls might otherwise be required to reduce ground water flow. The risks associated with the use of such a self erecting membrane are assessed in comparison with traditional permanent walls or banks and the temporary demountable barriers employed in the Severn valley region in recent months. It is demonstrated that the self erecting barrier is cost effective particularly where the visual amenities of a waterside area would otherwise be lost. Keywords: flood defence, flood barrier, geosynthetic membrane, self erecting, low cost, flood risk, walkway, visual intrusion, preserved environment. 1 Introduction Flooding is a major problem throughout the world. In England and Wales alone, around 5 million people, in 2 million properties, live in flood risk areas (ref Environment Agency [3]). Climate change will cause more extremes of weather which may increase the risk of flooding. Flood protection and flood risk mitigation is a burgeoning problem which must be addressed.

Keywords

flood defence, flood barrier, geosynthetic membrane, self erecting,low cost, flood risk, walkway, visual intrusion, preserved environment.