SWALE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Improvement works are due to start shortly on the swales alongside Aquarius Drive and Gemini Road, an important part of Sherford’s sustainable drainage system. Here, the Sherford Consortium sets out what’s happening, when, why, and what to expect during the project.
What work is planned?
The swales are the shallow, vegetated areas of land running alongside Aquarius Drive and Gemini Road. They slow, capture, and channel surface water, forming an important part of the sustainable drainage system serving Sherford. We’re adding a new lining membrane to the swales in this area to safely channel water and prevent soil erosion.
Why is it happening now?
This work needs to take place while ground conditions remain favourable and ahead of winter, when the swales are needed the most, so unfortunately it isn’t something we’re able to postpone.
Work will start at the lower end of the swales at Aquarius Drive – by the play area and skate park – and move towards Gemini Road and the junction with Sherford Road. This sequence follows the natural fall of the land, so that gravity carries water towards the discharge points. This means it isn’t possible to work back towards the play area.
When will work start an how long will it take?
Fencing will go up from Monday 3rd August, ahead of construction starting on Monday 10th August. The full programme is expected to take approximately 14 weeks.
The phase of work around the play facilities will be the first part of the project and will be completed as quickly as possible (subject to weather conditions). We will look to reopen the access bridges as soon as we can, once this work is complete.
How will we access the play facilities?
While work takes place nearest the play facilities, the two footbridges crossing the swales will be out of action. An alternative entrance will be open further up Aquarius Drive, with the walking route going past the tennis courts, along the path between the courts and the Multi Use Games Area (MUGA), bringing you out by the skate park.
Signs will be in place at both gates and the new temporary entrance. If your children use the park without you, please make sure they know about this new entrance and exit route.
Click here for the walking route
Can we still use the play facilities?
Yes - they will remain open, with an alternative entrance available throughout. However, because the works begin at the section nearest the play area and skate park, access to some of the equipment closest to the swales will be affected during this phase, and a small section will need to be closed off.
When work isn’t actively taking place in this area, contractors have been instructed to remove the Heras fencing so the play equipment can be used, and to reopen areas of the park as the programme allows. Every effort will be made to keep the facilities as accessible as possible.
Click here to see the areas that will be temporarily fenced off
If you have any questions, please email the project team at info@sherford.uk
We apologise for any inconvenience caused while this important environmental project takes place. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Letter distributed to residents on Aquarius Drive and Gemini Road
