Culvert 40 - Improvement Works

A crucial phase of flood-prevention work at the Stumps Cross culvert in Chapel Beck Park was successfully completed over the summer months, putting an end to years of persistent flooding that had plagued the low-lying sections of the park and nearby residential streets.

The six-week project focused on upgrading and enlarging the ageing drainage infrastructure beneath the culvert, which carries the Chapel Beck watercourse under a key access road. Engineers replaced sections of the original pipework, installed higher-capacity gratings, and reinforced the surrounding channel to dramatically improve water flow during heavy rainfall.

Since completion in late July, the revamped culvert has already been put to the test by a series of intense autumn downpours and early-winter storms. Residents and park users have reported a marked difference, with standing water clearing rapidly and previously flood-prone paths remaining dry and usable.

The successful drainage upgrade has now cleared the way for the main phase of Chapel Beck Park’s transformation – including the new wide-lit footpath, biodiversity planting and watercourse clearance works. Contractors are expected to mobilise on site early in the new year, with the full park improvement programme scheduled for completion by late 2026.