A £700k scheme designed to reduce the risk of persistent flooding in the Gote area of Cockermouth has won a prestigious North West Institution of Civil Engineers award. The flood alleviation project which now protects 42 homes was defined by a full programme of community engagement via the Cockermouth Flood Action Group comprising residents of the close knit neighbourhood. The Environment Agency encouraged community involvement, both in planning the scheme and its subsequent management. The EA project team and CFAG worked closely together throughout the project, with the action group securing long term ownership and maintenance agreements for a new pumping station. The group also contributed to delivering the project, working alongside the EA and its suppliers in designing and supervising the works. The end result is a project which has significantly reduced the flood risk to this community. ICE North West Regional Director Alan Butler described the project as

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