Horwich: Flood defence work to start at Pickup's Field

Assessments have be completed and the project is now being costed after which works should start.

Flooding at Pickup’s Field in Horwich, known locally as Green Lane Field, has long been an issue, particularly on the footpath adjacent to it after only slight rainfall, according to residents.

The fields are a popular cut through for walkers and cyclists, as well as for a number of elderly and disabled residents in the area, with the footpath providing easy access to town’s schools, shops, and pharmacy, and other amenities when not underwater.

Last year, Horwich North East councillors – Cllr Marie Brady, Cllr Kevin McKeon, and Cllr Richard Silvester - made funding available from the area forum budget to resurface the footpath which connects Darley Street to Albert Street and Pioneer Close.

Damaged culverts under Pickup's Field (Image: Marie Brady)

Bolton at Home has agreed to take responsibility for the resurfacing of the footpath from Pioneer Close to Singleton Avenue, and it was intended that the whole resurfacing be done at the same time by the same contractor in order to minimise disruption and cost and any drainage repairs and gully clearing to be completed prior to resurfacing.

READ MORE: Pickup's Field paths flood issues to be tackled

However, after flooding in November, it became apparent there was a worsening issue with water pouring out from the field and flooding the footpath.

In December, Cllr Brady spent the day with engineers from the council to assess how to move forward with the project.

READ MORE: Bolton Council and Bellway blamed for Westhoughton flooding

She said: “I went out with one of our highways team, we dye tested to see whether the culvert or land drains were the cause. We identified it was the culvert and arranged investigations.

Completed access chambers (Image: Marie Brady)

“Camera surveys and trial holes identified three areas where repairs were needed to repair the culvert which was displaced and broken by tree roots.

“The repairs and root cutting were carried out by Bolton Council who also jetted to remove any remaining silt from the system on completion.

READ MORE: Bolton Council announces more flood defence plans

“We are now awaiting the estimated cost of resurfacing which will commence as soon as a contractor is appointed.”