The Grandison Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme

Overview

The Grandison Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme is currently at Full Business Case (FBC) and detailed design stage. Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council (NPTCBC) have been working with engineering consultancy, AtkinsRéalis, to develop this scheme. They have undertaken a catchment based approach, aimed at reducing the risk of flooding in Briton Ferry.

The detailed design phase associated with Grandison Brook FAS has involved extensive analysis, including surveys and catchment wide investigation work. This has revealed a preferred option for design development, in preparation for construction stage.

The preferred option includes the installation of a new culvert with greater drainage capacity. This would be situated along the highway and within open green spaces through Briton Ferry.

Additionally, the scheme proposes to construct a new flood relief culvert, coupled with storm-water attenuation at Jersey Park. This will increase the current hydraulic capacity of the surface water drainage system. The new culvert will connect to the existing watercourse further downstream, before discharging into the River Neath. The proposed scheme will provide capacity to alleviate flooding up to and including the 1% AEP (1 in 100).

During the detailed design phase, ecological surveys were conducted, to ensure that all ecological and environmental enhancements are considered. Some invasive non-native species (INNS), such as Japanese Knotweed, were identified to be present in the lower catchment areas. Controlling and treating INNS will play a critical part of the flood alleviation scheme, by supporting ecological resilience and enhancing the natural environment.

Jersey Park is also known for its industrial heritage, which includes the remains of a 19th-century railway system. Extensive heritage assessments and ecological surveys have been considered as part of the preferred design option. As a result of this scheme, greenspaces and local heritage will be significantly improved. The proposed upgrade to the play area in Jersey Park will also enhance the family-friendly space for the local community in Briton Ferry. 

It is anticipated that the construction phase of the Grandison Brook Flood Alleviation Scheme would commence in 2026/27. It must be noted that the scheme's progression to the construction phase relies heavily on funding becoming available from both the Council and Welsh Government. We cannot give any definitive timescales on future works at this stage, or assurances that this scheme will go ahead, until further clarity is sought in relation to Governmental funding.

We have included documentation for the draft planning application and we are keen to for you to review and comment on these during the Statutory Pre-application process that will formally commence on 14th May 2025. We invite you to review the proposals and complete our consultation questionnaire. The consultation will run for 28 days until 11th June 2025. Following a review of comments received we anticipate a formal planning application to be made later this year.

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