After the successful use of Hydrorock in Seven Kings, Redbridge Council has rolled out the advanced flood defence technology to further locations to reduce flood risks in the borough

The Hydrorock system was first trialled in Seven Kings High Road last year, with positive results. Since its installation there has been no flooding at the site despite heavy downpours.

Its success has led to further roll out of the Hydrorock system at Hermon Hill and Wellesley Road in Wanstead Village – locations identified as potential flood risks due to previous episodes of flooding, including for those living in local basement flats.

Acting like a sponge block, the Hydrorock blocks were placed under the road that connects to the gullies to rapidly absorb and hold water from heavy rainfall, which is then gradually and slowly released into the sewer system. This prevents the sewer system from becoming overwhelmed from sudden surges of water from heavy rainfall – one of the main causes of road flooding.

In addition to the underground flood defence works, sections of the road were also re-surfaced with permeable paving to further help absorb rainwater off the road and into the underground Hydrorock blocks.

Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability Cllr Jo Blackman said: 

“Hydrorock is one of a number of measures we’re putting in place to help keep local homes, businesses, and communities safe from flooding. With climate change making extreme weather more likely, Redbridge Council is taking a proactive, practical approach to keep our communities safe, and is committed to continued investment in sustainable drainage systems and innovative technology to boost the borough’s flood defences. The priority is to protect local communities from flooding and build a more flood resilient borough for the future.”

Over the next ten years the Council will be investing just over £11m into schemes that help reduce local flood risks in the borough in addition to £2.5m spent since 2022.

(Pic: London Borough of Redbridge)