Welney Wash Road warning 'no quick fixes' for flooding

Heavy rain has led to an amber flood alert for the Welney Washes, with river levels close to the point where the A1101 road across the man-made wetlands could begin to flood if the waters keep rising.

That means the main southern approach to Welney could be cut off, leaving villagers facing lengthy detours.

The A1101 crosses the Welney Washes, which were designed as a man-made flood reservoir (Image: Ian Burt)Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Transport, said: “We’re aware of the issues at Welney Wash Road, the risk of flooding is high, and so Norfolk County Council, along with our partners in the Norfolk Strategic Flooding Alliance, have made the road one of the key sites we’re working on to identify how we can lessen the risk of flooding.

"The fact is that the causes of flooding along Welney Wash Road are complex, and a full set of mitigation measures would cost as much as £58m, we’re looking into how such work could be funded, including via government support, but sadly there are no quick fixes for this issue.

“In the meantime we’d urge all drivers to be mindful of the weather and flood risks, and to check your route before setting off and follow any diversions or travel advice put in place.”

Norfolk County Council cabinet member Graham Plant (Image: Archant)The A1101 was one of 16 sites which the flooding alliance, which was set up in 2021, has identified where mitigation measures will be investigated. 

They include the A140 at Long Stratton, Ferry Road at Horning and the A143 at Redenhall.

Welney Washes were designed to flood by the Dutch drainers who reclaimed the Fens 300 years ago, to prevent land and communities further north from flooding.