The Environment Agency has started vital repair work to flood defences in Ten Mile Bank.

The work began today (Monday) in Engine Road, which links the village with Littleport, and is expected to take around three months to complete.

The road will remain closed and impassable throughout the construction works.

Greg Murphy, from the Environment Agency said: “We recognise there will be some disruption to the local community. We trust they will understand the need to undertake these works as soon as possible in order to finish before the next flood season, thereby reducing the flood risk to people and property.

“Support and patience is appreciated during this time.”

The proposed works should not impact navigation for boaters although there is a risk that levels may need to be lowered if the situation changes.

The works will start with the removal of a row of poplar trees along the section of the failed embankment.

Approximately 300 metres of steel sheet piling will then be installed along the river bank, between the edge of the road and the landward crest of the embankment, to stabilise the bank.

The piles are vibrated into the ground using heavy machinery. Following the piling the flood embankment will be repaired. Unsuitable material from the failed embankment will be removed and replaced with imported clay.

Repairs will also be made to the erosion protection along the river; rock and coir rolls will be used to encourage water vole colonisation.