RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on a new information board which highlights the flood risk and ecology of Middlesbrough becks.

The new board is being installed ahead of vital flood work which will take place to reduce the risk of flooding from Marton West Beck.

The community event takes place at Albert Park Visitor Centre inside the park, on Tuesday, October 16, and residents and businesses can drop in at any time between 10am and noon.

The Environment Agency, Middlesbrough Council and Northumbrian Water are exploring options to reduce the risk of flooding to almost 500 properties and the wider community in Middlesbrough.

They are looking at improving existing defences, replacing or formalising other structures as flood defences along Marton West Beck, and improving the performance of the sewer system, as well as surface water storage.

The community can play a key role in the process and the team are interested in their local knowledge, thoughts and opinions.

Sarah Duffy, flood community engagement officer for the Environment Agency, is hosting the community event for the new information board. She said: “More than 1,000 properties are at risk from flooding from Middlesbrough Becks and it is really important residents understand their risk and what it means for them.

“The new information board being installed at Albert Park has information on about the flood risk, what people can do, but also about the ecology of the area. It’s hoped it will give people an understanding of the river system.

“Going forward, there will be lots of opportunities for residents to have their say on the future scheme to reduce the risk of flooding from the becks, from the sewer and from surface water.”

To receive regular updates on the proposed flood scheme or if you have any questions, contact the project team at MartonWestBeck@environment-agency.gov.uk

The scheme has a dedicated page on Middlesbrough Council's website where project updates will be posted regularly.