The programme of major improvement and maintenance works to flood defences along the Broadland rivers completed its fifth year in 2006. The work is being undertaken by Broadland Environmental Services Ltd, a joint venture between contractors Edmund Nuttall and consultants Halcrow, in partnership with the Environment Agency and Defra.

Over 82 km of flood bank have been subject to improvements that provide appropriate protection to property and infrastructure as well as to wildlife, landscape and cultural heritage features within the lower reaches of the Broadland rivers.

In 2006 major works have been undertaken in the Waveney valley downstream of Beccles; at Upton, South Walsham Marshes and St Benet's on the River Bure; at Ludham on the Ant and Thurne; Chedgrave, Hardley and Nogdam on the River Chet. Work has been completed around Haddiscoe Island, including along The Cut. First time defences have also been provided to some of the businesses on Brundall Riverside.

Unexpected delays were caused when, unlike any previous year, water voles were found on every construction site. A large amount of time was spent cutting vegetation and trapping to remove them from the works corridor. Almost 500 animals were caught and removed to other parts of the marshes.

One of the most exciting events of the year happened at Beccles Marshes during the excavation of a new soke dyke. Vertical timber posts were uncovered and initial analysis suggested they were from the Iron Age and possible Bronze Age periods. Suffolk County Council and English Heritage archaeologists thought that the site was likely to be of national importance so it was agreed that the project would fund an archaeological dig. It was concluded the posts formed part of an ancient causeway and additional finds also provided evidence of Roman use.

Notable enhancements included a replacement pedestrian bridge across the River Waveney at Geldeston (funded separately by the Environment Agency), improved footpath surfaces at Beccles Marshes and Chedgrave (partnership projects between the Broads Authority and BESL), and re-piling for moorings at Ludham Staithe and Fleet Dyke, South Walsham.

During the year BESL has contributed to the development of the Broads Authority's Sediment Management Strategy and assisted practically by providing areas for disposal of dredgings. It is also working closely with the Authority over its delivery of the Moorings Strategy.

For details on the project visit www.bfap.org