Enhanced flood defences plan for north Kendal

The Environment Agency has submitted a revised planning application for upgraded flood defences in part of Kendal.
Planning permission for the section between the Lakeland Distribution Centre and Dale Farm on the Westmorland Business Park was originally granted in 2019. The agency has now resubmitted the scheme using updated data to refine and improve the design of flood protection works in north Kendal.
The revised plans have been lodged with Westmorland and Furness Council.
The enhanced proposals include a 210-metre reinforced flood wall at the Lakeland Distribution Centre and a 370-metre embankment along Westmorland Business Park. The scheme also features improved surface water drainage, an upgraded access track and landscaping intended to reduce visual impact.
The Environment Agency said extensive catchment modelling shows the work will not increase flood risk to nearby homes or businesses.
Once validated, the application will enter a 13-week statutory consultation period managed by the council, during which residents and businesses will be able to view the plans and submit comments.
A spokesman for the Environment Agency said it remained committed to ongoing engagement throughout the design and construction process. “Using new data, the Environment Agency has been able to improve the plans for the flood risk management for the south west Kendal area,” he said.
The agency said the wider Kendal and Upper Kent Catchment Flood Risk Management Scheme will ultimately provide improved protection for more than 1,920 homes and 2,250 businesses.