On Sunday morning, James was up in the early hours to join the Environment Agency team at 4:45am for a planned “Winter Readiness event”. As it turned out however, the exercise was real as a flood alert had been issued for King’s Lynn, and other parts of the coast.
James joined the Environment Agency teams along South Quay, King's Staithe Square, and at the Port to observe the flood defence plans being put into effect. There were a couple of cars parked in ways which prevented the gates being closed but action would have been taken to move or remove them if necessary.
James said, "It was impressive to see the Environment Agency team put the flood defence plans into action with the gates and barriers to protect the town. These measures help protect King's Lynn and the coast however, it is essential to continue to tackle climate change and to get to Net Zero."
In December 2013 there was a powerful tidal surge which tested the defences and led to further investment. There are a series of plaques indicating the height of the flood waters in King’s Lynn, including at Marriott's Warehouse.
The UK will be hosting COP26 in Glasgow next year which will provide the opportunity for the UK to drive global action.
To sign up for flood warnings, please register here https://www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings
For further information on flood measures visit https://www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/info/20098/water_management_and_flooding
