Houghton Brook
– Flood Alleviation Scheme
Dobsons worked to improve protection from flooding along the Houghton Brook and River Lea in Luton which benefitted 600 residential and commercial properties as well as key roads and other infrastructure. to reduce the risk of flooding to people and property
The aim was to create a better place for people and wildlife that is more resilient to the impacts of flooding and climate change. The soft landscaping on the project involved grading and ground preparation including cultivation and hydroseeding of embankment, amenity, wildflower, pond edge and species rich seeding which will increase important plant species.
We also planted a variety of native specimen trees and shrubs with biodegradable tree protection and mulch matting. These will all attract a variety of wildlife which include bumble bees, butterflies, birds and bats and the use of biodegradable tree protection further positively impacts the environment.
Prior to works commencing we attended various Initial Site Meetings to set out a program that would coincide with the construction of the site. Here we discussed seasonal constraints of our landscaping works and ensured that areas would be ready in time to enable our work to be completed at optimal times for successful establishment. At the initial site meeting for Houghton Brook the main programming involved ground preparation works, planting and seeding. Marginals were in season and so were imminently planted.
The site was going to be ready in three phases so planning of resources and materials were important. Planting works were carried out prior to Christmas. Although the clients ideal was to seed before the project was finished the areas were not going to be ready in time to allow for successful establishment of the seed. We recommended that although it was against the current programme, to seed in the spring when conditions were better suited. Therefore, we carried out spray off and strimming of the areas to be seeded to ensure they remained under control until we were able to seed.