The Port of Boston has today announced its full backing of the proposed Boston Barrier and has formally withdrawn its objection to the Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) application made by the Environment Agency in August 2016.

This comes after extensive discussions between the Environment Agency and the Port around the proposed Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) which will go to a public inquiry next month.

The multi-million pound Boston Barrier is part of the Boston Combined Strategy that will reduce the risk of tidal flooding to over 17,000 properties in the area.

Boston Barrier Director, Adam Robinson said:

We’re delighted to be working alongside the Port of Boston, the statutory Harbour Authority, to secure consent and enable the delivery of such an important scheme for the town of Boston, following the December 2013 tidal surge where many properties and businesses were affected.

The Port has agreed that the Environment Agency can provide temporary berthing facilities for use by the Boston fishing fleet during construction of the proposed Barrier. They are also working with the them to ensure that the sequencing of the Barrier construction works would allow the Port’s operations to continue in a safe and efficient manner throughout the construction programme.

Representative of the Port of Boston, Neil Harris said:

We are pleased to announce today that we are fully supportive of the Boston Barrier Scheme that the Environment Agency are promoting for the town of Boston.

We have been working closely with the Environment Agency throughout the optioneering and development phases of the Boston Barrier Scheme and we will continue to work together during the detailed design and construction stage, particularly in relation to ensuring the continued safe navigation of all vessels on the Haven.

There will be some disruption to navigation during key construction activities, but the Port is confident these can be managed and kept to a minimum through continued partnership working with the Environment Agency and their contractor. Safety of navigation will be a priority at all times.

The Public Inquiry for the proposed Transport and Works Act Order starts on the 19th April at:

To view the Environment Agency’s Statement of Case and supporting documents visit: https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/engagement/bostonbarriertwao/

Notes for editors:

To find out more:
Drop into the Boston Barrier hub every Wednesday from 12-7pm at:

Email: boston.barrier@environment-agency.gov.uk

Call: 07769937012

Twitter: @BostonBarrierEA

Facebook: facebook.com/BostonBarrier